Match Point

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Rhy-Meyers, Emily Mortimer, Brian Cox
Directed by: Woody Allen
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Romance
2005

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A former tennis pro (Jonathan Rhy-Meyers) begins dating his friend's sister (Emily Mortimer), but slowly begins to fall for his friend's fiance (Scarlett Johansson).

Review:

Tim: Now, I've been one of Wood Allen's fiercest critics for years, because I believe he is an overrated hack who just plain sucks as a filmmaker. I hate it most of all when he casts himself as some boring, neurotic dipshit that we have to suffer through watching. Luckily, he is no where to be seen here, and surprisingly, gives us a solid film that constantly shifts what we think we know. This is not your typical movie, and the film's shocking ending serves as evidence that although Allen has made some terrible, terrible films, he might have some talent after all.

Allen is helped enormously by his cast. Scarlett Johansson lights up the screen in a steamy, unforgettable role. She is putting the glamour back in Hollywood, and she is mesmerizing here. Jonathan Rhys-Meyers has put in some solid performances in recent years, and has earned the chance to shine in his own right. He gives a very solid performance. I was very impressed. Allen also assembles a strong supporting cast with Emily Mortimer and Brian Cox, and everyone contributes to the film.

I've always been a fan of tennis, and I love seeing it depicted on screen, even if only in a few scenes at it is here. Relating sports metaphors to real life is as often-used tactic, and tennis is very relatable to life. Allen uses this fact to give the movie one of its beautiful moments- the tennis ball hanging above the net, falling to either victory or defeat, with only luck to guide it. Here I say, bravo Mr. Allen, bravo.
Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 8



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