Walking and Talking

Hip, witty, likable precursor to Sex and the City. The film has a Woody Allen feel, but with a 90s feminist slant. Set in New York City, the camera follows the romantic trials and tribulations of its two lead females (in two exquisite performances from Keener and Heche). The dialog is bristling with insight and vigor unlike many films of that era that Hollywood mass produced as so -called romantic comedies. Yet this film is much more than a romantic comedy. Inspired by Woody Allen's more intimate and small-scale New York films, it adds its own voice to that tradition. This is definitely on of the better indie comedies of the 1990s, and stands the test of time even after the demise of Sex and the City.

While an observation of New York neuroses hardly breaks new ground, the characters as drawn by writer/director Nicole Holofcener are interesting enough to keep us engrossed in this charming, sometimes moving comedy.

A New York drama critic faulted Catherine Keener in a stage performance for not acting, but for being just herself. Keener is perhaps not the most versatile performer, but she's always compelling on screen and even just "being herself" is more than enough.

Holofcener has a way with actors coaxing credible and funny performances from all. It's a very talky affair with not enough meat on it to make a lasting impression. But her talent is crystal clear. She's way above most other independent directors with an assured feel for dialog and formidable directing skills.

Amelia (Catherine Keener) is a very needy person. Therefore, losing her childhood friend Laura (Anne Heche) as a roommate has been tough. Laura has moved in with her boyfriend and is on the verge of becoming engaged. That hurts, as Amelia has not had good luck with men. She is forever phoning her best friend, nevertheless, for advice and for support in coping with life's problems, from a sick cat to a former boyfriend/pornography addict (Liev Schreiber). Laura, a counselor, does her best to be available for Amelia, but wedding plans and minor tifts with her intended leave her with less free time than ever. Will Amelia learn to just stand on her own two feet, for goodness sake? This is a quietly thoughtful film about friendship and its boundaries. Keener is wonderful as the friend who relies on others to help her through life's ups and downs. Even the most cherished friendships need room to breathe and Amelia has to learn this the hard way. Heche is likewise very fine as the beautiful lady who appears to have it all but may, in fact, have some flaws, too. Todd Field is great as Laura's fiancé and Schrieber gives a nice turn as a commitment phobic, sexually obsessive addict. All of the production necessities, from costumes to sets to direction, are quite nice. Then, too, the script is quirky, funny and original as well. No, this is not a thrill-a-minute adventure, so those who eschew slower paced, dialogue-driven films will want to skip over this one. Yet, if you adore romantic dramas brimming with life, humor, and important statements, here is the film you've been looking for. Walk to the nearest video outlet and peruse the shelves until you grasp this little gem in your hands.

A lovely little movie, with fine performances, a real feel-good indie movie. Catherine Keener (so vastly different in "Being John Malkovich"!) is wonderful, playing the insecurities of her character to great effect (the scene where she stalks the video store clerk is fabulous, as is her reluctance to put her cat down). Anne Heche is - as always - on great form; and Liev S is very good too. A lovely little movie, often a little too low-key for its own good. It never demands too much from the viewer and as a result reaps all the awards. Recommended viewing. Enjoy!

"Walking and Talking" is a slice of life flick which focuses on two thirtyish female best friends (Heche & Keener). A dialogue-intensive plotless situational relationship light comedy, "W&T" offers good performances, a lively script, and a variety of situations with which thirtyish guys and gals will be able to identify. An enjoyable way to wile away 1.5 hours.