C


To my immense surprise, the movie wasn't half as bad as I feared. Not to say that it was any good, but at least it wasn't horrible. The movie is somewhat of a modern take on Breakfast at Tiffany's. I think what in a way makes this film stand out, is the way it is told which is, as it becomes clear towards the end of the film (though heavily implied before), in the form of the screenplay of the protagonist's (Brittany Murphy) best friend, a gay screenwritier (Matthew Rhys) hoping to land a gig at last.

The gist of the film: Murphy's Emily Jackson works at the UK Vogue and tries to bring the apparently gay photographer's assistant Paolo and her gay best friend (and roommate) Peter together. Only that Paulo isn't actually gay and has the hots for Emily. Comedy ensues. Or doesn't.

In fact, this is so much of a been-there-done-that plot that the only way to go for it is to surprise and be better than completely awful. All the other options would be expected. And it does surprise against all odds. At times, it actually manages to be rather charming, mostly thanks to Murphy (who is often offset by the inept actor playing Paolo). There are also some genuine laughs here, mostly on behalf of the supporting characters and at the end of the film there are two really hilarious cameos.

Sadly, these moments of goodness are balanced out by some very cringe-inducing scenes like Paolo and Emily dancing Argentine Tango or some really awkward scenes between apparently gay characters (only that they're never allowed to share a single intimacy in the film, despite the film actually having more gay main characters than straight ones). Oh and for what purpose does Murphy actually spend about half of the film in her underwear (or sometimes without it)?!


And a side note: Luc Besson and David Fincher produced this. THE HELL!?!

How's the filming of this? The trailer kind of made it look like it's filmed like a soap opera and doesn't look natural like a movie does.

Hmm. I didn't find that to be the case at all.


This was really cute and charming. I love Matthew Rhys (Brothers & Sisters) and I really liked Brittany Murphy here.

Grade: 7/10 ( B )