Shadows and Fog

Starring: Woody Allen, Kathy Bates, John Cusack, Mia Farrow, Jodie Foster, Fred Gwynne, Madonna, John Malkovich, Kenneth Mars, William H. Macy, John C. Reilly
Directed by: Woody Allen
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy, Horror, Thriller
1992

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: While a murderer is on the prowl of dark streets at night, a cowardly man (Woody Allen) is dragged into a vigilante group by his friends. He reluctantly walks the streets looking for the killer and meets an odd cast of characters, all out and about for different reasons.

Review:

Tim: I am not a Woody Allen fan, and I am amazed at how anybody could be. The dude is a has-been and he was never that spectacular to begin with. This is another miserable failure for him. I don't necessarily hate the concept- a comedic spin on the old killer-stalks-the-streets-at-night films. Sadly, Allen has far too big a role, which hurts the film immensely.

Allen also manages to assemble a terrific cast and then squanders their talent in almost effortless fashion. I blame this totally on the direction (or misdirection) of Allen. Take for example, John Malkovich. He is one of the greatest actors of all time, and here, he looks like a bumbling fool. Watch for the scene with him and the baby. The acting is so bad that I want to cry. Jodie Foster is wasted. Kathy Bates is wasted. Only John Cusack manages to showcase a little of his talent, but not too much.

After pissing away all the talent at his fingertips, Allen doesn't even give us a well developed story. The films ends in such a weak, terrible fashion that it leaves an awful taste in your mouth. Shadows and Fog had potential but ends up being yet another disappointment. Avoid this one like you'd avoid a grisly killer in a dark alley.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 4.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: all of Woody Allen's films, cause you're obviously a die-hard fan