Intolerable Cruelty
This movie exists almost completely at the edges. The main story of divorce and prenuptial agreements is broad and predictable, despite all the “twists.” But being a Coen brothers movie, there’s all kinds of stuff going on in the margins that’s fantastic – little throwaway lines, visual jokes, peripheral characters. There’s also quite a few big laughs, especially if your sense of humor is as off-center as mine.
Award this movie should win at the next Oscars:
Best use of “Pilates instructor” as a punchline.
The biggest surprise here is George Clooney, who does amazingly well with the broad comedy of hotshot divorce attorney Miles Massey. He grabs onto the part like a bulldog and never lets go, never pulls back from the edge. He’s still not much of an actor overall, but not everyone could pull off this part, either. He can get a laugh with just a shift of his eyes.
Another plus: Catherine Zeta-Jones wasn’t quite the pop culture kryptonite she usually is for me. And that’s saying something.
My favorite character is Massey’s adoring law partner, Wrigley. He has a huge unrequited crush on Clooney’s Miles, and it plays out in some funny and sweet exchanges between the two that probably most people will miss. Maybe I just identify with Wrigley, since I have a crush on Clooney too.
Recommended.
Agreed. They both give themselves to the roles completely. Funny movie. Also wonderful overexagerated musical cues particularly in the court-room scenes.