The Bonfire of the Vanities

Starring: Tom Hanks, Bruce Willis, Melanie Griffith, Morgan Freeman, Kirsten Dunst (bit part)
Directed by: Brian De Palma
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
1990

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A rich man (Tom Hanks) and his mistress (Melanie Griffith) accidentally run over two men who were trying to rob them. One of the boys, an African American, slips into a coma. His neighborhood comes to life claiming racism, and the city is pressured to find the culprit. As the evidence points to the two who actually did it, their ethics and morals are put to the test.

Review:

Tim: This film is not nearly as bad as everyone says it is. This is not a good movie, but I've been hearing so many bad things about this that I can't believe all the fuss was over not too much at all. Tom Hanks might be miscast, but not so woefully miscast as everyone says. This film is a poor adaptation of a very good book, and in many ways, is a very messy film.

The movie isn't done incredibly well and is weak in many aspects. However, the message is still there, and although the film tarnishes it a bit, it still manages to survive. This is a movie, afterall, based on a very good book.

I'll admit that Hanks should very have played McCoy. He simply isn't right for the part and looks like he's drowning in the role. However, he puts in a valiant effort and you can tell he wanted it to work. It isn't a failure for want of effort.

Bruce Willis is miscast as well. He is decent, but contributes too little. Melanie Griffith gives a manipulative performance, but is only decent as well. Morgan Freeman is actually the best casting choice and I desperately wish he had more screen time.

The Bonfire of the Vanities is definitely not a strong film and should have been much better. The cast is good, but in the wrong roles, come out looking subpar. I would recommend not paying too much attention to all the people who condemn this movie as a complete failure. It is better than many people give it credit for, although, sadly, I do admit it isn't very good at all.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 6



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: no recommendations, go take a nap or something