Movie Review: High Fidelity

Story: Wanna laugh? Go see this charming, funny, everybody's got to grow up eventually film. It is based on Nick Hornby's London set novel (I did not read it) and reset in Chicago, deliciously directed by Stephen Frears (The Grifters, My Beautiful Laundrette, The Snapper)and rewritten for the screen by DV De Vincentis, Steve Pink, Scott Rosenberg and John Cusack. I really didn't think I would find much to relate to in a film about a 30's something guy, his relationships and music. Boy, was I wrong. It is very clever, fast paced (all John Cusack films are revved up), filled with lists (I love lists), intelligent banter, amazing attention to detail in the soundtrack, costumes (some great t-shirts) and sets. I didn't look at my watch once.

Acting: John Cusack is always terrific (and will probably be getting Kevin Spacey roles real soon) and this could be one of his last 30 something boy/man roles. If it is, he leaves this stage of his life with a bang. A fabulous supporting cast, including Jack Black and Todd Louiso as the record store employees, Iben Hjele (she looks very familiar) is effectively low key as the present girlfriend, cameos by Lisa Bonet (all grown up), Lili Taylor, Catherine Zeta Jones (soon to add Douglas to that mouthful name), Joelle Carter and Joan Cusack (acting as a sibling should instead of like the creepy Jolie/Voight siblings) are all delightful and rich. There are also some surprise cameos to add more laughter to the mix.

Visual Art: Some terrific posters

Soundtrack: Superb

Closing Credits; (sometime category) Very clever

Quirky Meter: 5

Oscar Worthy: Perhaps in screen adaptation and supporting roles.

Length: Under the 2 hour rule

LOBO HOWLS: 8