The Gun in Betty Lou's Handbag

I beg to differ with the previous reviewer. On the contrary, this film does have a plot and is funny, with a rewarding ending. It is a light comedy, true. What I liked about it is that it is not just another cookie-cutter formula Hollywood movie. The plot is unique and believable, the writing is intelligent, the acting is adequate, the conclusion is appropriate to the plot. The two main characters, Betty Lou and Alex, grow and mature from their initial portrayal.

It is not a major film, but it is rewarding in its own way, an enjoyable way to spend 89 minutes. Lots of fun.

A strange film, indeed. It doesn't lack its charms, but the film, as directed by Allan Moyle, goes nowhere because it seems to go in different directions. The film has a few laughs and the best way is to approach it without any preconceptions because it will reward the viewer.

What the director is to be congratulated is because of the good performances from this cast. Penelope Ann Miller, playing the title role is an actress that is not seen often in the movies. She deserves better as she projects a nice sunny quality about everything she does. Alfre Woodard is a gifted performance whose appearances are always welcome.

The curiosity here was Julianne Moore playing Elinor. Ms. Moore is shown at a disadvantage in the movie. Evidently she must have had a cosmetic transformation that worked for her in getting better roles than this silly role she is seen playing here.

Mr. Moyle has a knack for directing. This film has good moments and it's worth a look.

A bit too violent to be a comedy, but come on folks, it wasn't that bad. The story is that behind every person is someone to know, and that every person needs to risk and live.

OK, granted Beaudeen didn't have to use the knife in such graphic manners, but overall, good dialogue and decent acting.

I enjoyed The Gun in Betty Lou's Handbag. Though it's a far from great romantic comedy, it does have its funny (and quirky) moments, and a charming performance by Golden Globe Nominee Penelope Ann Miller. It's also a chance to see handsome sexy Eric Thal in a leading role (a shame he didn't become a bigger name!). But what sets Betty Lou apart from other "pretty good" romantic comedies is the fact that it features not one, not two, not three, but four Oscar nominated actresses: Alfre Woodard, Julianne Moore, and Cathy Moriarty, and Catherine Keener, each of whom is delightful in her role. I'll bet the producers had no idea what a goldmine supporting cast they'd assembled. The 89 minute running time suggests a film with many scenes left on the cutting room floor. Too bad there won't be a Special Edition of this one, as I'd love to see those deleted scenes!

I thought this movie was going to be light and funny--and it WAS in some parts. Alfree Woodard and Faye Grant give especially good performances. Faye Grant's character is a scream! And Julianne Moore is great as Betty Lou's sister. But when it got to the suspenseful parts, it went beyond light and funny. It was surprisingly good. I enjoyed every minute of it.