Movies
Inventing the Abbotts
Pale imitation of a 1950s soap opera, set in that actual era. The issues are solid (first love, the wrong side of the tracks, the gossip-stained reputation), and the storytelling shows good patience, and the cast (Joaquin Phoenix, Liv Tyler, Jennifer Connelly, Joanna Going, Billy Crudup, Kathy Baker, Will Patton) is willing. But the whole thing is let down by awkward direction (Ireland's Pat O'Connor), penny-pinching production, and unflattering photography. Going and Baker have particular bones to pick in that last regard. 1997.
— Duncan Shepherd
Reader Rating:
- MPAA Rating: R
