Remakes are useless. The creative mind is boundless, and in Hollywood lately it seems that those in charge have forgotten this fact: recycled, reused, and retained are three words to describe the current creative talent in Tinsletown.
Thank goodness, then, that Bewitched is NOT a remake! In fact, it's hardly a re-imaging. Using the classic sitcom as a FOUNDATION, Bewitched transcends current remake or "romantic-comedy" fare to become a wonderfully entertaining, bright, smart, and deeply enjoyable EXPERIENCE (what else is a movie for?).
And what a beautiful foundation the sitcom is. Appearances by Uncle Arthur, Gladys Kravitz, and Aunt Clara suffice any fans of the classic-show, while the fantastic writing and direction by the Ephrons suffices those who crave creativity at the cinema, which is to say the film has its own look, voice, and absolute CHARM.
Nicole Kidman plays Isabelle Bigelow, a witch, hoping to shed herself of "instant-gratification" and simply be: in a world as beautiful as real life. Meanwhile, Will Ferrell as Jack Wyatt, a washed-up movie star, attempts to remake the TV show Bewitched for modern times, with the clear goal of finding an unknown actress for Samantha. After spotting Isabelle his goal seems realized, and the two begin to recreate the beloved sitcom. As Isabelle finds it increasingly hard to withhold her magical powers (especially dealing with her crush on Jack) fantastic humor and charm result.
Nicole Kidman is absolutely delicious as Isabelle. She again displays her deep talent by shedding her dramatic persona and appearing fresh, funny, and sophisticated. She proves herself as a treat for the masses AND for artistic-acting lovers. She gives all- she is a movie star and an actress, and such refreshing delight would be hard to come by this summer by ANY actress. She surprises once again.
Will Ferrell is altogether hilarious. Providing his classic comedy with a touch of individuality for his role (wherein lies his genius) he completely satisfies as Wyatt. But Ferrell goes one step further from satisfaction to brilliance with his reinvention of himself into a romantic lead. His "straight-acting" is solid, clear, and trained.
Together, Kidman and Ferrell simply light up the screen. Here is a screen-duo that should continue on in the spirit of Hepburn and Tracy. Their undeniable chemistry makes the film most definitely fun to watch.
With a magnanimous slew of supporting players, including Michael Caine as Isabelle's father, the legendary Shirley MacLaine as the remake's Endora, Jason Schwartzman as Jack Wyatt's ultra-power, sleaze-bag agent, and a very funny Kristin Chenoweth as Isabelle's neighbor, every second of Bewitched is filled with wonderful comedic energy.
And all of this is to thank Nora Ephron, who skillfully crafts a comedy of great-expectations with creativity, style, experience, and fearlessness. Bewtiched is as fun to look at as it is to hear, and it moves like a fine dance, among glittering Los Angelas (like you've NEVER seen it in a film). She at the same time pays homage to the original series, creates a new film, and tacks on some heartwarming messages.
Thanks to the fabulous pairing and individual pairings of Kidman and Ferrell, a great supporting cast, and fantastic execution can turn a great "foundation" into a great movie, and it doesn't have to be a remake, either.
Thank goodness, then, that Bewitched is NOT a remake! In fact, it's hardly a re-imaging. Using the classic sitcom as a FOUNDATION, Bewitched transcends current remake or "romantic-comedy" fare to become a wonderfully entertaining, bright, smart, and deeply enjoyable EXPERIENCE (what else is a movie for?).
And what a beautiful foundation the sitcom is. Appearances by Uncle Arthur, Gladys Kravitz, and Aunt Clara suffice any fans of the classic-show, while the fantastic writing and direction by the Ephrons suffices those who crave creativity at the cinema, which is to say the film has its own look, voice, and absolute CHARM.
Nicole Kidman plays Isabelle Bigelow, a witch, hoping to shed herself of "instant-gratification" and simply be: in a world as beautiful as real life. Meanwhile, Will Ferrell as Jack Wyatt, a washed-up movie star, attempts to remake the TV show Bewitched for modern times, with the clear goal of finding an unknown actress for Samantha. After spotting Isabelle his goal seems realized, and the two begin to recreate the beloved sitcom. As Isabelle finds it increasingly hard to withhold her magical powers (especially dealing with her crush on Jack) fantastic humor and charm result.
Nicole Kidman is absolutely delicious as Isabelle. She again displays her deep talent by shedding her dramatic persona and appearing fresh, funny, and sophisticated. She proves herself as a treat for the masses AND for artistic-acting lovers. She gives all- she is a movie star and an actress, and such refreshing delight would be hard to come by this summer by ANY actress. She surprises once again.
Will Ferrell is altogether hilarious. Providing his classic comedy with a touch of individuality for his role (wherein lies his genius) he completely satisfies as Wyatt. But Ferrell goes one step further from satisfaction to brilliance with his reinvention of himself into a romantic lead. His "straight-acting" is solid, clear, and trained.
Together, Kidman and Ferrell simply light up the screen. Here is a screen-duo that should continue on in the spirit of Hepburn and Tracy. Their undeniable chemistry makes the film most definitely fun to watch.
With a magnanimous slew of supporting players, including Michael Caine as Isabelle's father, the legendary Shirley MacLaine as the remake's Endora, Jason Schwartzman as Jack Wyatt's ultra-power, sleaze-bag agent, and a very funny Kristin Chenoweth as Isabelle's neighbor, every second of Bewitched is filled with wonderful comedic energy.
And all of this is to thank Nora Ephron, who skillfully crafts a comedy of great-expectations with creativity, style, experience, and fearlessness. Bewtiched is as fun to look at as it is to hear, and it moves like a fine dance, among glittering Los Angelas (like you've NEVER seen it in a film). She at the same time pays homage to the original series, creates a new film, and tacks on some heartwarming messages.
Thanks to the fabulous pairing and individual pairings of Kidman and Ferrell, a great supporting cast, and fantastic execution can turn a great "foundation" into a great movie, and it doesn't have to be a remake, either.