Behind the Screen
Hollywood and Indie Offerings

Desson Thomson
Washington Post Film Critic
Friday, December 1, 2006 12:30 PM

Washington Post film critic Desson Thomson was online Friday, Dec. 1, at 12:30 p.m. ET to discuss the latest movies, both Hollywood and indie, and the art of film.

Thomson, a movie critic at The Washington Post for 15 years, was raised in England where he was entranced, like most, by Hollywood movies. And it was a visit to see David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia," that made him realize movies had to be a part of his life.

A transcript follows.

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Desson Thomson: The wind it was howling

And the snow was outrageous

Sorry, the Dylan song comes to mind as we hunker down for a windy afternoon.

Hello Good People, it's time for me to wrestle with your profound, stirring and provocative (or not) questions. Let's launch this puppy.

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Riverdale Parke, Md.: Hello Desson,

Why does The Post persist in running reviews in the Weekend and Style sections?

I wouldn't mind reading different reviews by different reviewers, but what The Post gives its readers is just two versions of the same review.

I feel ripped off.

Desson Thomson: Hello Riverdale. Believe me, you're not the first to voice this opinion. I can only suggest you send an e mail or letter to the Post and express your dissatisfaction. The idea is to put the bigger takes on movies in the Style section, which is after all the arts and cultural wing of the Post. (it used to be that Weekend and Style ran double reviews for the same movie - one by Stephen Hunter or whoever the Style critic was at the time, and the other by me, when I was a Weekend reviewer.) But now, the Post moved me into Style along with Steve and Ann Hornaday. So, all the reviews originate in Style and are excerpted for Weekend. This is because so many readers have become used to the Weekend fuller reviews over the past years -- and I know this especially, since I've written, oh, thousands of them in the past 20-plus years -- the Post has reconfigured Weekend to have short takes on the same films. One part of this thinking is that Weekend readers aren't necessarily Style readers and won't necessarily go to Style to get their information. Yes it is duplication and I have no solution for it. But that's the system that's now been in place for more than a year.

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Raleigh, N.C.: My office will be closed the week of Christmas, and I was hoping to get to the movies once that week. What should I see? We have small, indie theaters as well as lots of multiplexes.

Desson Thomson: I don't know what you've seen, nor your taste, so that's a pretty difficult question to answer. But you can't go wrong with Casino Royale, the Bond film. Or Happy Feet, for family-based animation. Or The Queen, for arty satisfaction. And it's a great rule of thumb to see anything at the indie-showing places. Those films are based on stories and ideas and themes, not overpaid stars.

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Third and Constitution: You doing this chat from Kansas? It's sunny in my end of town.

Desson Thomson: You're right. It's not so bad right now. Just anticipatin' the howling winds I was told to worry about. What do I know? I'm just Joe Schlub listening to the weatherman.

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Anonymous: Just saw "United 93" for the second time. It still packed a wallop. My wife saw it for the first time. She was impressed. What are its chances in the Oscar race?

Desson Thomson: It's the kind of movie that surely ought to get some kind of nomination - movies with important subjects usually get something. So I expect some sort of nod.

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Herndon, Va.: Desson,

You know how at the end of each review there's a few italicized words describing the adult content? Well, I was shocked -- SHOCKED -- to read that the movie "F---" contains profanity.

I mean, couldn't they have bleeped it out?

Desson Thomson: Well, my answer is --------------------------------- and further more I really think that ----------

------- and so in conclusion ------------------

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Desson - I saw the preview of the new Rocky movie this week. I started booing and about half of the people in the theater joined in, along with a whole lot of laughter. Not a good sign for Mr. Stallone, eh?

Desson Thomson: I have heard good things about this movie, actually. I am morbidly interested in checking it out. Plus I am doing the review. We'll see what it's like, won't we?

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Arlington, Va.: Very different films, but if you could see just one movie this weekend ... "Candy" or "For Your Consideration"?

Desson Thomson: Both are worth seeing in their own way and, yes, very different. I would go with For Your Consideration.

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Alexandria, Va: Do you find it just a little bit annoying that Philip Seymour Hoffman's performances are seemingly perfect in all of his movies (except Twister)? Somebody put in him a Bruckheimer or something so we don't have to like him so much.

Desson Thomson: Don't worry, the Law of Averages will surely take its toll. I happen to like him too. Yes, he was over the top in Twister, but even then he was so watchable.

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Alexandria, Va.: I'm really looking forward to "Children of Men" based on the trailer, but am worried it just won't live up to my expectations (I know, how many trailers have raised our hopes?). Have you seen it yet?

Desson Thomson: No but I am looking forward to it. Sounds very cool.

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Arlington, Va.: Just saw "Last King of Scotland." Forest Whittaker was absolutely terrifying! If he doesn't get an Oscar win for this, then the Oscars officially become a joke. On a related note, I'm hearing a lot of Oscar buzz about Peter O'Toole for "Venus", and nothing against him as an actor, because he IS great, but Forrest is the more deserving of the two this year.

Desson Thomson: Whitaker is always good, it seems to me. There's zero doubt he'll be nominated for this terrific turn. I have enjoyed him in so many roles --- Ghost Dog, Bird and the Crying Game come to mind. He sure deserves it. I won't be surprised to see him win.

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Washington, D.C.: I have to decide between 'Babel," "The Fountain" and "Little Children" tonight. What should I go with?

Desson Thomson: Little Children and Babel in that order. The Fountain has been slammed by critics for not having a good story but lauded for having -- no surprise--an amazing visual scheme.

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Arlington, Va.: I'm hoping to see "The Fountain" this weekend. As a budding Aronofsky fan and lover of "Pi," I'm very intrigued by his newest arrival. Have you had the chance to see it yet?

Desson Thomson: Actually I haven't at this moment but I will see it soon and I know it'll be amazing to watch. He's a real visual stylist.

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Dumfries, Va: Has Chris Klein's career been stunted due to a serious case of Keanu-voice?

Desson Thomson: He--in my opinion--has a very limited range. He works best as a sort of comic foil (he's usually the funny, slightly awkward straight guy ). But he's not quite right on his own, holding up a movie, I think. He's very likable though but a little CK goes a long way.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Did you read the Mel Gibson interview in EW? He is an interesting fellow, and I am looking forward to "Apocalypto," but I can't decide if he's deluding himself or trying to delude us about his character flaws. No matter how drunk, frustrated, and angry you get, you don't say those things unless they are tucked away in your brain somewhere. And he doesn't seem to want to recognize that.

Desson Thomson: The inside of Mel's brain ought to be part of a Universal ride-type of tour. We'd have to fasten seatbelts for a stormy, crazy, bumpy ride. Incidentally, the word on Apocalypto is that it's very good but also extremely violent. Catching it in the next few days.

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Springfield, Va.: Since you're about that age, you buy the story of a 58-year-old boxer winning the championship, don't you? That's not impossible or anything is it?

Desson Thomson: Ow. You know how to hurt a guy. I haven't even seen 50 yet. Give me my extra years back! But I certainly am old enough to be a sucker for a comeback story.

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Gotham City: What is the buzz about "Apocalypto"? Will Mel create another masterpiece? Or will it be another "Waterworld"?

Desson Thomson: What I just said. Supposed to be great but very violent and not a little crazy.

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Burke, Va.: So I finally got around to watching "Thank You For Smoking" this past weekend on DVD. What a clever film! Any chance Aaron Eckheart gets an acting nomination, at the very least a Golden Globe for comedy?

Desson Thomson: I think he'll get something, a nom, at the Golden Globes which give awards for comedy roles--something Oscar traditionally ignores. If fact, there's a chance you and I will get some sort of nom at the Globes. If Pia Zadora can be a winner, anyone can.

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Locust Grove, Va.: Should I see "The Nativity Story" or "Rise of Taj" this weekend?

Desson Thomson: Haha, what a choice. If you're religious, I'd say the NS. Although Ann's review didn't make it sound great as a film per se. The Rise of Taj--well, if you're even asking.... Go.

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Washington, D.C.: Chris Klein has a career?

Desson Thomson: Sorta kinda, I guess. He has FIVE in the can right now.

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DC 20016: Hi, Desson. Any Christmas openings you're especially looking forward to? Pretty slim pickings at the moment, from my perspective. Thanks.

Desson Thomson: Apocalypto.

The History Boys.

The Good German.

The Good Shepherd.

Volver.

Children of Men.

Dreamgirls.

The Painted Veil.

Breaking and Entering.

Pan's Labyrinth.

All sound interesting. And I already know Volver is fab.

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Magicians:"Illusionist" vs. "Prestige"?

Desson Thomson: Will this question never end? Kind of neck and neck. I guess the Illusionist would win by a nose. or the tip of a wand.

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To the person interested in "Children of Men": I was in London in October and saw "Children of Men," which had already opened there. Definitely go see it when it comes here, the performances are terffic, and Cuaron's directing was really powerful. Lots of thumbs up.

Desson Thomson: Cool, thanks for passing that along.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi, Desson. Six 60-something women celebrated two birthdays by seeing six films at Bethesda Row last weekend. For whatever it's worth, here's our rundown:

"The Queen": excellent.

"For Your Consideration": cute but ultimately sad.

"Copying Beethoven": Glorious music but everything else is bunk. Spend your money on a good CD instead.

"Bobby": Good concept, great cast, what went wrong? But Bobby's speeches made us cry.

"Fur/Diane Arbus": Much too arty. We had no idea what was going on.

"Little Children": Good but creepy.

We do this every few weeks and always enjoy it, even if all of the movies are not our cup of tea.

Desson Thomson: Hey, great little series of instant takes. Thanks! You all sound right on the money.

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Kennedyphile: I admit it -- big Kennedy family buff right here. I can't believe Estevez made a movie with the title "Bobby" and then focused on some fictional everyday people at the L.A. hotel he was killed at in 1968. Um -- where is his wife carrying his unborn child? What about their kids? They had more kids than Rose did.

I watched the "Sunday Morning" segment with Osgood and couldn't believe that he would take that moment in history and turn it into the stuff of tabloid AND NOT EVEN focus on Kennedy's family --immediate or extended.

He should have titled it "Ambassador Hotel." This "recreated history" stuff is bad news.

Desson Thomson: I can understand and support some of your reaction. But I thought its approach was very bold and interesting. And I was impressed at the way it interwove news video footage or film footage with the fictional. A flawed film, no doubt. But still sorta watchable.

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Washington, D.C.: Last year there were so many great movies ("Crash" not among them, IMHO). This year just seems -- blah. We were trying to come up with five nominees for each major category and fell short on all. Is this just a subpar year, or are we missing something? Any Christmas opening that give us cause for cheer? Thanks.

Desson Thomson: Yes, it has been a blah year, especially over the summer. But a few responses ago, I listed the holiday releases that look interesting to me.

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washingtonpost.com: Desson's Choices for Christmas: Apocalypto. The History Boys. The Good German. The Good Shepherd. Volver. Children of Men. Dreamgirls. The Painted Veil. Breaking and Entering. Pan's Labyrinth.

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Reston, Va.: I just saw on HBO the movie from last year "Just like Heaven" which is the first time I REALLY noticed scrumptious Mark Ruffalo. Any other new movies of note coming out by him? Have you met him?

I saw "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" way back when it came out -- but I think "Just like Heaven" may be a breakout for him -- he's actually playing a leading man there.

Desson Thomson: Mark Ruffalo is someone I have been a fan of since 2000's You Can Count on Me. He has such great presence and a sort of bear-like sensuality. And I love that slurry halting delivery. He's always good, even in terrible films like "In the Cut." He's a busy man. Has 3 films in the can, including Zodiac, based on the real life killer, and Reservation Road, a freaky destiny flick directed by Terry George the Irish filmmaker who made the excellent Hotel Rwanda.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Desson,

This is a kind of random question but I'm hoping you can help. Is the French movie "La Haine" (Hate) available on DVD? I've never seen it and I've heard good things. If not, any hopes of it hitting shelves?

Thank you!

Desson Thomson: Check the Internet for DVD availability but Potomac Video stores tell me they have it on videotape but not DVD. Might not be available in that format. Check under its English title: Hate.

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Falls Church, Va.: Hello Desson,

I've been a little underwhelmed by theater offerings of late (though I am looking forward to seeing "Casino Royale"). What do I have to look forward to this holiday season?

Desson Thomson: Same as previous. All those titles I mentioned.

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Rochester, N.Y.: Desson,

Just want to report that 'Keeping Mum' was better than expected. I had thought that the mysterious, unintended coming together of long-lost family members was an 'overtrodden' theme, especially of late. But the movie was pleasant, even with a couple of cliched moments. And for Mr. Bean fans, while Rowan Atkinson's movies have been tortuous ... we couldn't help but smile, every scene he was in. I didn't have a real appreciation for Kristen Scott Thomas before, but she was riveting in this.

Desson Thomson: I'll give you that: it had its moments. But I wanted Mr. Bean to be a little more interesting than a clerical drip, to be honest.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Desson, Thanks for the great chats. Do you know if the new Paul Verhoeven's movie "The Black Book" will get released in the U.S.? I'm glad to see he's gone back to making movies in Dutch, but I'm afraid expats like me might be too small an audience for release. Thanks!

Desson Thomson: Thanks yourself--and thanks for making these chats happen. It's not on the immediate horizon for DC, as far as I can tell.

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Poolesville, Md.: What do you think about The Pursuit of Happyness? I'm a HUGE Will Smith fan, and love to see his movies, but I still want to make sure they are good movies.

Desson Thomson: To be honest, I had a cringe attack when I saw the trailer. That kind of sentimental hokum -- at least so it seems on the trailer -- isn't my cup of tea. But Smith always surprises me with his exuberance. He was a great Ali, I thought. I will reserve judgment and, as of now, can't tell you much more than that.

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I'm just Joe Schlub listening to the weatherman : Speaking of the weatherman, Tom Kierein this morning said that the weather today was going to be "life threatening." Bob Ryan's on-line forecast from last night made it sound not all that bad. Could Tom have been exaggerating this morning to goose ratings, perhaps? Sounds like he had recently watched "The Day After Tomorrow" (to put a movie spin on this chat submission).

Desson Thomson: Maybe you should do what those Chicagoans do in the movie The Weatherman. Toss slushees at Tom. Speaking of which, that's one movie that I think a lot of people missed this year. I enjoyed it much.

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Bethesda: Finally saw Borat after all the hype, and just wanted to report that neither did it live up to its hype nor is it more than maybe 3 good jokes and incessant potty humor.

Desson Thomson: Sorry you feel that way. I laughed throughout the movie.

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New York City: Desson: "Lawrence" had a similar effect on me. Movies and Hollywood have ALWAYS been driven by profit, and though we are now hyper-obsessed by the daily box office, it is still a profit driven medium, so why so may bad movies? Why is 1966 so markedly different than 2006?

Desson Thomson: Back then, movies were our most exciting form of entertainment. And studios weren't so risk averse. Now you got to a movie and STILL people are checking messages on their cell phones. We've turned into techno-consumer drones and we've lost all innocence and receptivity.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Desson,

I saw Eastwood's "Flags" at Uptown just before Thanksgiving and was deeply impressed. I was quite unprepared for the emotional power of the film. My one objection was the one-sided nature of the story. The Japanese are depicted as anonymous killing machines. However, a colleague informed me that Eastwood is working on the same story from the Japanese perspective ("Letters From Iwo Jima"). What an ambitious effort! I found the Web site below complete with trailer that lists the incredible Ken Watanabe in the lead role.

(Requires Installation) Letters From Iwo Jima

Desson Thomson: This is great. Thanks for passing along.

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Washington, D.C.: I would have to say "The Good Shepherd" looks like an incredible film, but I saw who directed it, and I'm a little confused. Francis Ford Coppola executive produced it, but Bobby D. directed it. He has a bit of experience co-directing "The Score" (pretty decent movie with Ed Norton and Marlon Brando -- his last film) with Frank Oz and "A Bronx Tale" way back in 1993. Can Coppola guide DeNiro to a successful directing career?

Desson Thomson: De Niro is obviously a better actor than a great director. Chances are--and this is pure guesswork-- this movie will reflect that. I look forward to the subject though.

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Paul Verhoeven: Wow, seeing that name made me flash (no pun intended) on one of the sexiest movies I've ever seen -- "The Fourth Man."

The bedroom scene in that film knocked my socks off.

Desson Thomson: Aha. you liked that movie huh? Yes, pretty good wasn't it.

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Washington, D.C.: I was able to sneak into a press screening of "Deja Vu" and had the exact same opinion as you did. That being said, when I read reviews of it, I was surprised how overwhelmingly positive they were. I am just a casual filmgoer (I took one basic film class in college) but I just felt that, ironically, I had seen everything in that movie before, and it felt like the actors didn't even believe what there were saying. Each reviewer is entitled to his/her opinion, I guess. Have you ever read a review of someone you may normally respected and were shocked at how different their reaction was?

Desson Thomson: Thanks for agreeing with me! The more I thought about that film the more I disliked it, as my review revealed. Yes I routinely read reviews I disagree with, but those reviewers routinely read me and have the same reaction I'm sure.

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Casino Royale ...: I know this is yesterday's news, but Bond playing Texas Hold'Em ??? He might as well drink Andre instead of Dom Perignon! Why does Hollywood have to "update" everything?

Desson Thomson: Keeping up with the kids, keeping up with the kids--whose institutional knowledge runs shallower each year.

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Minneapolis, Minn.: From what I have seen of the trailer for Children of Men, it is greatly changed from the book. Has there been any comment from P D James on how she feels about it?

Desson Thomson: Sorry. out of time to check on that. No I haven't heard PD's reaction. But it looks like it does depart. So does The History Boys from what I hear.

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Herndon, Va.: Desson,

In the wee hours of this morning, I came across "The Dreamers" staring Bond babe Eva Green on IFC. The movie could be described as soft porn (rated MA-17). It left no part of Eva's body to the imagination and I wonder if the 007 producers were aware of her exposure in "The Dreamers" when she was cast.

Have you seen this movie? If you haven't, how far did it just shoot up your list of movies to watch?

Desson Thomson: I haven't seen this movie, sorry. But I think you nay have whetted many an appetite among our posters!

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Desson Thomson: Thanks everyone. Looking forward to connecting with you and others in a couple of weeks. See you all soon. Peace out.

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