The Leading Man

This is the second film I’ve seen in a short time with a non-actor/non-singer in one of the leading roles. I’m not thrilled about this one, either. It's true that Jon Bon Jovi, unlike Louise Veronica Ciccone, didn't offend my aesthetic sensibilities, but I can’t say his acting did the movie any favors. The story was far from original, but it was watchable. What bothered me more was the occasional overacting. I get it, they were theatre actors putting on a new play, but they were theatrical in their private lives as well, which didn’t work for me. It was no masterpiece, the performances were quite unimpressive, but I’m willing to give it two stars. (25/12/2021)

A calm B-movie, a gift for Jon Bon Jovi fans. It’s a pleasant environment for rehearsing a play and a group of well-coordinated actors. Thandie Newton has always been very interesting. She started out alongside Kidman in Flirting and by the time that film was being shot she’d already had an affair with Brad Pitt (they met while working on Interview with the Vampire). In this film, she got a nice opportunity to mature. Those looking for Kidman will have to wait for her cameo at the very end of the film. (17/11/2020)