I saw The Guard because I was curious as to why Don Cheadle would star in a film with Brendan Gleeson and a number of Irish actors. Cheadle is very selective in his roles and always delivers a thoughtful and convincing performance. The idea of an American/Irish odd couple story could be mishandled by a daft screenwriter but this film must have had something about it to catch Cheadle’s interest. Most audience member seemed to enjoy the film wholeheartedly. The dialogue was witty, the characters were compelling and the story was memorable. Two disparate personalities, forced to unite in order …
2004 Academy Awards Revisited
Recalling the controversy over the Best Picture selection at the 2004 Academy Awards, I think it was much ado about nothing. Brokeback Mountain (***) had won numerous awards that year, including the Best Director Oscar for Ang Lee but I think Crash (****)- which was little known at the time – rightfully won the big prize. Brokeback Mountain was very scenic and featured a very appropriate soundtrack, transporting viewers back to Wyoming in the 1960s. The film carried the positive message that love isn’t limited by gender or race but a far deeper emotion. But although the film was enjoyable, …