Movie Reviews

By Anthony J. Gallela
Guardsman A&E Editor
Published May 15, 1998

Sliding Doors. Now playing. Rating: matinee

Vogue’s flavor of the month, Gwyneth Paltrow, plays a nasally, smiling Brit in her latest starring vehicle, Sliding Doors.

The film valiantly tries to answer the question, "What if you missed that train and didn’t get to meet the man of your dreams?"

Sliding Doors ‘ gimmicky, metaphysical plot propels Paltrow’s character, Helen, through two simultaneous stories hinging on one bittersweet, catalytic moment. Smooth direction and character definition lessens confusion between the two Paltrows — she’s a sad brunette in one story, a happy blonde in the other.

Viewers voyeuristically spend the whole movie watching Helen have a breakdown over — what else? — the search for Mr. Right (as if anything else motivates characters these days). But the boys in this flick, despite nice hair and English accents, are devoid of sexual interest.

That’s supplied by Jeanne Tripplehorn (in her usual second-banana role), who provides some badly needed heat as the passionately pissed "other woman."

The type of women’s film a woman would never make, Sliding Doors is a throwback to times when women would get pregnant to advance the plot, with Paltrow attempting to chew on a few scenes worthy of Erica Kane.

Some sweet moments and witty lines grace the sappy story, but the stakes are never high enough to effectively complement the metaphysical plot.

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The Big Hit. Now Playing. Rated R. Rating: Half Ticket

At first I didn’t realize The Big Hit was supposed to be a comedy, but once I did, I was rolling on the floor. The film comes off as very staged and cheesy until it becomes obvious that the direction and dialogue are intentionally poking fun at the action genre.

The Big Hit is about a professional killer with a heart who gets involved in a kidnapping gone wrong. Though it’s the plot-du-jour for Hollywood these days, The Big Hit’s story is a lot of fun to watch unfold.

It has a Hong Kong action feel — including a break dancing-while-shooting-’em-up scene — but the interaction between characters is very American.

Performances by Mark Wahlberg and cast are highlighted by great comic timing, but the real star of this film is newcomer China Chow.

The Big Hit is Chow’s debut film, and she hits hard. The double punch of her beauty and acting ability left a lasting impression.

Arts &
Entertainment

Movies Reviewed

Sliding Doors

The Big Hit

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This page last updated 09/08/98.

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