Good Advice

This is a reasonably funny film about the 30-something beautiful people and how they cavort in the New York publishing world. Its a comedy and theres a romance, so the storyline is all about how the couple gets there from here through deceptions and misunderstandings. The three main characters are a male investment banker, Ryan, a bimbo female advice columnist, Cindy, and her female editor, Page. The editors secretary, Iris, has a small support role, but watch her. Shes a 70-something with more enthusiasm than anyone in the whole story. There are some quick funny gag lines in the style of SNL mostly delivered by Barry Sherman, Ryans friend who is a plastic surgeon.

The storyline has an interesting transition in advice giving from stereotypical male roughshod disparagement to thoughtful, sensitive consideration. There is a lesson in its success, which works in the story. The introduction of this twist with some better than average acting make this pretty good light entertainment. There isnt much else to analyze. There are no surprises, no tension, several laughs and pretty people.

Charlie Sheen plays Ryan Turner, the investment banker. He is good in the part, but a little too stiff. He doesnt yet quite have the subtle comic timing. Ive liked him better cast in more serious roles as he was in Platoon (1986), which launched his career, and Wall Street (1987). I last saw him in Being John Malkovich (1999).

Angie Harmon plays Page Hensen, the editor and Ryans love interest. She was in only one film prior to this one but she really made her mark as Abbie Carmichael on the TV program, Law & Order from 1998-2001. She accepted her boyfriends proposal on Jay Lenos Tonight Show in 2000.

Jon Lovitz and Rosanna Arquette play the Shermans. Lovitz was on Saturday Night Live (SNL) at various times from 1985-1990. Arquette has had a steady career with more than 70 roles since 1977.

Estelle Harris plays Iris, the secretary. Shes had about 25 roles since 1977. She and her husband will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 2004.

Reviewed December 27, 2003