SWEET LIBERTY (1986)

 

Written & Directed By: Alan Alda Cinematography: Frank Tidy Editor: Michael Economou

Cast: Alan Alda, Michael Caine, Michelle Pfeiffer, Bob Hoskins, Saul Rubinek, Lise Hilboldt, Lillian Gish, Lois Chiles, John C. McGinley, Lynne Thigpen 

Michael has written a scholarly book on the revolutionary war. He has sold the movie rights. The arrival of the film crew seriously disrupts him as actors want to change their characters, directors want to re-stage battles, and he becomes very infatuated with Faith, who will play the female lead in the movie. At the same time, he is fighting with his crazy mother who thinks the Devil lives in her kitchen, and his girlfriend who is talking about commitment.

When it comes to Alan Alda. A little is a lot though I am still a fan of the series he starred in M.A.S.H.

He comes off too smug throughout even when trying to be earnest. As A know all. As like him, the film feels like it is speaking down to others and considers itself too intellectual.

This film comes off as Woody Allen lite. It feels too general but too sharp and kind of whitewashed.

Wonder if at the time this was seen as biting humor. Watching it now feels basic.

The film has a light touch with a little depth. Which moves along breezily. As it is full-on comedic 

Lilian Gish as Alda's mother seems here more to work and to be a big name in the cast.  As her character is another problem for the lead character to juggle. Whose storyline goes nowhere. Not to mention makes his plights more personal. 

Michael Caine is effortlessly charming and aloof. He manages to stay in control of his growing set of affairs. Yet never breaks a sweat.

Bob Hoskins is in full New York City accent mode as a screenwriter trying to make it big. 

The film In its early scenes is more about the behind-the-scenes movie-making comedy. That feels charmed with itself. Before becoming more of an intellectual farce of sorts.

The score is kind of hammy. As this film feels more made for video. As it’s less cinematic and more small-scale simple. 

If not for some language and sexy scenes. This film is clean enough to be a TV movie with a movie star cast. 

Despite my misgivings, the film Does have its charms as a film about late to middle age angst 

This film would make a great companion piece with the film STATE AND MAIN

Grade: C+