I've never thought that many of Robert Benton's movies were great, they are more low-key dramas. So, with "The Late Show," this follows suit.
Art Carney is great, but he is a naturally skilled actor. Lily Tomlin is pretty routine. The cinematography, such as it is, is fairly dull and poorly lit. The music is good, and is composed by the one person who seems to be in on the neo-noir concept in a genuine way.
The story is supposed to be a comedy-drama, but there is really no comedy. So, it's just drama, which here is neo-noir, with lots of "doll" this or "doll" that in the screenplay. The goings on are just too morose, and the script too closely follows the convoluted film noir plot formula for its own good.
Missed opportunities all around.
***** (5 Out of 10 Stars)
Art Carney is great, but he is a naturally skilled actor. Lily Tomlin is pretty routine. The cinematography, such as it is, is fairly dull and poorly lit. The music is good, and is composed by the one person who seems to be in on the neo-noir concept in a genuine way.
The story is supposed to be a comedy-drama, but there is really no comedy. So, it's just drama, which here is neo-noir, with lots of "doll" this or "doll" that in the screenplay. The goings on are just too morose, and the script too closely follows the convoluted film noir plot formula for its own good.
Missed opportunities all around.
***** (5 Out of 10 Stars)