QFLW Blog

Under discussion:

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events  (2004)

Perhaps an odd adjective for a gloomy, morose story; nevertheless, this is a well-done and handsome adaptation of the first three Lemony Snicket books.  Though the film can't quite capture the dry cheek of the written stories, it makes up for the translation loss in other ways.  Wonderful cast; excellent performances by Jim Carrey* (the perfect Count Olaf) and each of the children; gorgeous gothic sets and a fitting score.  The film never fails to make me cry, but it also makes me laugh, as do the books.

*Normally I find Carrey irritating and too over-the-top to be funny, but for this film he was just right.

Under discussion:

The Truman Show  (1998)

Didn't want to see this film but my brother talked me into it.  I will concede the idea behind the plot was interesting, but Carrey never stops annoying me.  Even while playing a "straight" role, Carrey has this smug, self-conscious look going on.  It removed all credibility from the film.  For me, leastways.