Best Men

I thought this was a cross between "Dog Day Afternoon", "Diner" and "In Country" with a bit of any Steven Seagal movie thrown in. I liked it because the characters were all interesting, even the FBI, who are usually not real characters. Out of the large cast, I enjoyed Ray Barry and Dean Cain the most. What you'll get out of this movie is anyone's guess, but its that unpredictability that I appreciate.

I have to admit Best Men was one of those films I had passed dozens of times at the video store - every time meaning to check it out. But I am glad that I finally did. In a way this is just like other off-beat, crime capers. The plot won't keep you guessing but then, that's not the point. Instead the pace of the film matches the laid-back town where it is set. And the movie definitely plays for laughs over any attempt at pathos. Which is good, the last thing we need is yet another movie trying to be more than it really is. All the audience is asked to do is kick back and enjoy the ride. However the film is not without its surprises - namely the performances of Dean Cain and Sean Patrick Flanery. Dean Cain is a revelation - forget Superman, this guy should definitely aim for parts like these. He brings a sensitivity to his role that belies his previous tv role. And Sean Patrick Flanery gets a mention for his adeptness with Shakespearean dialogue. There are not many actors on the big screen today who make it sound so easy - especially when you consider that not all of the dialogue spoken is original (and therefore with no prior standards or interpretations to guide the way). Kudos to the writers too, for doing such a great job. However, don't let the Shakespeare bit put off any action fans - there's more than enough to keep the blood pumping. Shakespeare plus shootouts and a groom who is going to be reeaallly late - this movie is mad.

There is a bank robber known as Hamlet working the area who quotes Shakespeare during his robberies. Four friends Buzz (Dean Cain), Teddy (Andy Dick), Billy (Sean Patrick Flanery), and Sol (Mitchell Whitfield) have come to pick up Jesse (Luke Wilson) from prison released after around 3 years. They are all dressed in tuxedos going to Jesse's wedding with Hope (Drew Barrymore). Billy is dropped off at the bank who turns out to be the masked bandit Hamlet. Then the rest of the guys go into the bank. They are surprised by Billy's bank robbery, and join in. Sheriff Phillips (Fred Ward) surrounds the group, and turns out to be Billy's dad.

This is a poor copy of 'Dog Day Afternoon'. Billy is way too pathetic. The FBI is way too ridiculous. The other people in the group makes no sense. It's trying to be a quirky action comedy. Except that it's more stupid than funny. And it's a horrible idea to have Andy Dick who is hamming it up for the camera. I think the filmmakers are attempting at a Tarantino-like DDA movie but they don't have the skills to pull it off. It comes off as a weak homage to the great movie.

When I rented this movie, I was thinking that it would be a comedy. Instead, this movie turned out to be more of a drama. I was very surprised with this movie and even a little curious as to why I had never heard of it before seeing it at the video store. Perhaps it is because it isn't a comedy like most people would expect. I really liked this movie. It isn't a vehicle for Drew Barrymore, if that is what you are expecting, but her part is one that she does well in. Dean Cain also turns in a worthy performance. I think most will be surprised at how touching and even moving this movie is if they give it a chance.

Never heard of this movie, but it was the best bet on the box. Had a thoroughly good time! Excellent writing, direction and performances. Nothing unpredictable - the Hamlet tie-in says it all, even the characters know they are playing out a tragedy and tell each other. But the predictability of the plot comes from the inevitability of the scenario, which in turn comes from the characters. If the resolutions are a little trite, its because its basically a tragedy played out on an action comedy set and there isn't time to beat about the bush. If you liked the wit and love of life in Strictly Ballroom, you'll like this.