Word: lowdown
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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...directors latest, the fanciful Sweet and Lowdown, is in most respects a minor work of art, though it is pleasant and interesting. But enthusiasts should note that it represents something of a breakthrough for Allen, in that the main character, fictional 30s jazz guitarist Emmet Ray (Sean Penn), is a brooding, inarticulate, freewheeling figure motivated by moody emotions. Sure, hes neurotic as hell, but not in the style of nebbishy self-analysis that has informed so many Allen protagonists. Emmets comic/pathetic exploits are governed by the cadences of jazz, which has always been a background presence in Allens movies...
...most of the characters obvious comic possibilities, including her voracious appetite for both sex and food but also manages to infuse her with dignity. Given the Academys recent penchant for rewarding supporting actresses in Allen films (Dianne Wiest, Mira Sorvino 89), Morton may be the reason Sweet and Lowdown gets remembered at awards time...
...films coda is satisfying enough on both an intellectual and an emotional level, but the very concept of Sweet and Lowdown, with its invented biographical framework and loosely connected scenes, works against the film burning itself in your memory. Even Penns fiery Emmet is too contained by the movies conceit to really stick with you. Perhaps its symbolic of what Allen has achieved here that Mortons Hattie is the only character who transcends the movies clever but self-limiting setup. Though Allen is traditionally known for his witty, fast-paced dialogue, youll remember her silent, expressive eyes long after everything...
Sweet and Lowdown marks Woody Allens thirtieth outing as a writer-director. This occasion makes it a worthwhile time to look back at the span of Allens accomplishments, a long list of movies that have inspired a love-him-or-hate-him divide among viewers. For those that fall into the first category, below is a list of five interesting but less-discussed Allen films that show both the range of his work and the consistent originality of his career (if youre new to Allen fandom, by all means start with Annie Hall). These titles have mostly fallen...
...Depression-era housewife (Mia Farrow) who goes to the pictures for escapism and one day finds that her favorite movie character (Jeff Daniels) has somehow escaped from the screen and into her life. The movie gets unexpected poignancy out of its superb comic setup and shares with Sweet and Lowdown Allens talent for recreating...