Crash

Crash; Stellar performances by many (notably Cheadle) can’t save this film from its misguided examination of racism using a soft lens. The movie means well but doesn’t dig deep enough to provide a true meaningful examination yet isn’t very subtle about its intentions either; B-

Cruel Intentions

Directed by:  Roger Kumble
Starring:  Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Selma Blair
Running Time:  1h 35min

What harm can be done to such a fabulous tale?  Phillippe tries hard to destroy this sinister tale but the likes of Gellar and Blair save it form his horrible acting.  One cannot believe that any girl in her right mind would want a bump on a log with the personality of a chalkboard.  However, Blair and Gellar, and Witherspoon for that metter, make things believable in that their desire and curiousity for sex could overcome that.  Which allows Phillippe to portray the body that these girls revolve around.  Gellar is fantastic, and Blair hilarious in an update that is thoughtful and invigorating.  Someone forgot to tell Phillippe that it was set in present day however, as he tries to recreate Malkovich (as if he ever could!)  A better male lead and it's a B+.

Grade: C+