kefka-2

I loved the first hour almost as much as the later scenes. I have no trouble with two-character dramas and actually prefer dialogue-driven movies over action-oriented ones, so this really is my kind of film. I can't say enough about Denis Leary's performance....it is superb. When, oh when, will audiences and, especially, self-styled critics realize that excelling at rant-type stand-up comedy doesn't preclude excellence in other forms of dramatic arts? Mr. Leary performs all over the emotional scale in "Final" - confusion, vulnerability, mistrust, resignation, humor, etc., etc., and is totally believable no matter what the situation - past or present. Additionally, Hope Davis provides a perfect foil, with her icy exterior ready to melt at any time. I just don't understand those who found this film "boring"; maybe a little ADD might be involved? Please don't let widespread negativity keep you from seeing this film, if it's still around. At least for me, the performances and poignant finale remained with me for many days.

I, too, fail to understand why this flick has been trashed so completely. There seems to be an ever-increasing trend toward eschewing black humor because it 'isn't nice'. Well, so what! this movie is VERY dark and in several places absolutely hilarious. I admit that I did not know who Rik Mayall is, but I'll be looking for him in the future. Jane Horrocks is every bit as good as she was in "Little Voice", and the guy who played the contract killer is hysterical. Please don't pay any attention to the nay-sayers and catch this movie if you can.

Okay, I'll state loudly and up-front that Denis Leary gives the best performance of the year in "Monument Ave.". Sure, other actors have been more flamboyant, cried louder and appeared on more magazine covers (y'know, 'box-office babies'), but using only a glance, Mr. Leary quietly conveys an inner anguish and rage that I've seldom seen equaled on film. However, Mr. Leary's performance isn't the only reason to see this film while it is still available. All performances, especially Famke Janssen and Billy Crudup, are award-worthy, and the direction and settings evoke a bleak despair and hopelessnesss seldom encountered in today's 'dumb and dumber' environment. This is a great piece of work - congratulations to all involved.