Pleasantville

“Wild Things is on, where’s my magic remote, WHERE’S MY MAGIC REMOTE”

Pleasantville examines two common themes from 90's cinema: how audiences consume media & its pre-millennium yearning for a supposedly safer past. Ross has a fantastic understanding of the first in his recreation of a 1950's sitcom. But his views on the latter--including commentary on racism, sexism, conformity & change--make the picture stick. A minor criticism is the sometimes clunky writing. Still, the film is more relevant in today's MAGA America than it was in its initial release.

What I learned from this movie: sex (and to a lesser extent, books) can save the world. In other words, Sesame Street was right.

A very neat idea for a film with some impressive special effects. It would most likely offend the Christian crowd due to the eating of an apple adding "colour" to life. If that concept doesn't bother you and you want to see a very different fantasy drama then for sure pick this movie up.

An extremely clever and original idea executed with style, warmth, and humor. Above all else, it's a triumph of casting - Maguire, Witherspoon, Macy, Allen, Daniels, Walsh, Knotts, Shelton, and even the loathsome Paul Walker are all pitch-perfect in their roles. Also, the female masturbation scene is awkward to watch while sitting in the theater next to your parents when you're 13. God damn.