Sloe

I let myself get talked into seeing this instead of The Last of The Mohicans.....I should have stood my ground. With free movies passes all the way around, we *way* overpaid.

I'm surprised to see this listed under "Horror", but not "Comedy" - although it's neither funny, nor scary. It tries to be a spoof....but doesn't succeed. I didn't connect with any of the characters, and left bored.

Don't waste your time.

Good chemistry between the characters - whether it's friends, parents, ex's, or lovers. The timing was right on, and everyone delivered.

Great casting from the Radio Psychologist (Rob Reiner) down to the last little kid.

Randy Quaid is one actor that usually needs tempering in his roles.....but not this one. He managed to be outrageous, testosterone laden, and rough-cut without sacrificing the depth of his character.

This was also the first movie in which I'd seen Janeane Garofalo (aka "The Date"), and I immediately added her to my list of favorites. I've since rented several other of her films, all of which I've enjoyed - especially "The Truth About Cats & Dogs".

Also keep an eye out for Mae Whitman ("Michele") - She needs a little more seasoning, but someday this kid is going to have "Oscar-winner" in front of her name.

A thoroughly enjoyable film.

I went expecting a comedy of sorts, but found myself immersed in a heart-wrenching tear-jerker instead.

Susan Sarandon is wonderfully expressive as the mother/ex-wife who's always been there for everyone. A woman who has sunk so deep into the role of supporter that she has trouble admitting to her family that she needs to be on the receiving end for once.

I loved the relationship she had developed with her son - too often children in films are merely props, and there's rarely the depth and individuality expressed in this film.

Julia Roberts was hilarious as the fiancee/career woman who is more used to last-minute creative solutions than planning ahead. I would like to have seen her character developed a little more outside of the family ties......Friends? Family? Interests other than photography?

Ed Harris's role was a travesty......his influence was practically non-existent other than to explain why Sarandon & Roberts couldn't get rid of each other. I was disappointed that his character was allowed to be so translucent. It takes a lot of courage and strength to create a strong friendship out of a failed marriage - the respect, love and character that must exist to hold that bond were only hinted at, and I wonder if his gentle masculine influence was eclipsed intentionally to give "strong female" roles more screen time.

By the way - for those who were wondering about snowblowing......think Altoids.