Movie of the Week

This week,

HIGH FIDELITY (2000)

Starring- John Cusack, Jack Black, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Tim Robbins

The first time I saw this movie, I hated it. However, I watched it again, and again and found that it was actually a very funny and charming film. Based on the novel by Nick Hornby, the story follows record store owner, Rob Gordon (Cusack) as he tries to come to terms with the breakup of his most recent relationship. He spends his days in the record store with his two music geek friends/employees, Dick and Barry, discussing films, music and making Top Five lists. Rob is also caught up trying to figure out why he is doomed to be a failure in love- recounting his Top Five Breakups and reconnecting with his ex-girlfriends.

High Fidelity at its core is about the transition into real adulthood, and participating in life rather than just observing it from the sidelines. Rob is just an appreciator, who has never really produced anything of his own, and that is what he must deal with if he is to stop repeating the same mistakes over and over again. The supporting cast is what takes this film up a notch, with Jack Black as Barry and Tim Robbins as Ian, standing out among the rest. The showdown with Ian in the record shop is a slice of comedy gold, as Rob once again fails to fight for his love.

The film has many memorable moments that are laced with good tunes and music trivia. Sadly, some of the best songs featured did not make it to the soundtrack album. Cusack is always watchable as a rain-soaked, rumpled leading man, and as I said, the supporting cast is stacked with strong performances, but there is one weak spot in this movie- the leading lady. Iben Hjejle is very unimpressive as Laura. It's kind of difficult to believe that Rob would go to such lengths to get her back. Even though you're happy to see the main character change his ways and get the girl in the end, you wish that the girl was Catherine Zeta-Jones instead. It's far from a perfect film, but for audiophiles who like to laugh, High Fidelity will fit the bill. Once you're done with the movie, sit down and make yourself a kick ass mix tape- just make sure to follow Rob's rules.

Things to watch for-

Walking on Sunshine

Marco

Cosby Sweater

Sonic Death Monkey

I haven't seen Evil Dead II yet

"How does an average guy like me become the number one lover-man in his particular postal district? He's grumpy, he's broke, he hangs out with the musical moron twins..."