jimcheva Review of The Last Word

The Last Word (2017)

Some great moments, great talent, a little predictable for much of it

[7/10 · 14 March 2020]

First of all, a shout-out to Eric Koretz. This is not a film that calls attention to itself visually, but some of the cinematography is gorgeous. The film itself is generally enjoyable, and feels original enough for long stretches. Then it veers into predictability and even strains credibility at one point. The theme of a difficult or undisciplined person opening someone more conventional and reserved to a richer, more self-realized life is a pretty established one at this point and this film too often hits the marks of that sub-genre. Still, Shirley MacLaine is, well, Shirley MacLaine, even when she's playing to type, and Philip Baker Hall has a texture as an actor that makes him enveloping to watch all on his own; put them together in a scene and it doesn't get any better. Anne Heche doesn't do much here, but she does it with her usual assurance and delineation. Young AnnJewel Lee Dixon sparkles so here that it is astonishing to see she has not done more since. A number of other familiar faces are nice to see in smaller roles. (HOW does Sarah Baker, who has such an extensive list of credits and so clear a type, not have a fatter bio?) The scaffolding of the story pokes through a little overmuch sometimes, but the emotional life overall is consistent and strong. Oh, and there's one great sight gag which depends on no more than a slow pan down the speaker's face. Not a perfect film, but a film with some perfect moments.