Written & Edited By: Lee Fenton
Be Cool
‘Be Cool’ is a nice return to form, a witty crime dramedy that manages to not only equal its predecessor – but also improves pleasantly upon the thrust of the first film. It adds a much needed layer to Chili Palmer, Hollywood’s most likable wiseguy. An ex-loan shark and bookie, Chili is always getting himself into situations that he can handle. John Travolta suits the role of Chili Palmer like a tailored glove, ironic, since the shylock tends to don a pair whenever he’s about to “get down to business”. If you’re a fan of ‘Get Shorty’ then you should adore this second entry in the Elmore Leonard duology.
Starring the aforementioned John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Vince Vaughn, Dwayne Johnson, Cedric the Entertainer, Andre 3000, Cristina Milian, Danny Devito, and Harvey Keitel. There’s also an opening scene involving James Woods.
The movie also has a host of cameos by famous musicians, including but not limited to: Fred Durst, The Black Eyed Peas (will.i.am, Fergie), RZA, Wyclef Jean, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Gene Simmons.
In comparison to the first film’s director (Barry Sonnenfeld), F Gary Gray brings a more whimsical approach to his storytelling — choosing to favour a wackier approach to storytelling than Sonnenfeld.
Yes, ‘Get Shorty’ was also a very funny film, but it took an approach to its comedy that was grounded a bit more in realism. The humour in it arose from subtle character interaction and some brilliant satirical commentary on Hollywood productions. While the first film was extremely poignant, the second film works hard to be extremely hilarious. Without the constraints of a more classically constructed crime-drama, the plot is allowed to serpentine its way through various set-pieces and musical concerts. If this wasn’t accomplished in a natural way, it would come off as contrived – the opposite of what you want in an ensemble piece.
Thankfully, the cast, crew, and director; all came together to make this a winning romantic comedy with a spritz of action. It helps that the focus on hip-hop and mafiosos allows for a wider demographic than the first film, which only explored Italian crime elements. Any stereotypes are intentional and obviously self-parody – which, in my book – is quite tasteful. The execution is also on-point, reminding me of films like ‘Tropic Thunder’ and ‘Rush Hour’.
The final product is a stellar piece of filmmaking and a real bright mark on Travolta’s filmography.
So what are you waiting for?
Rating:
8.5/10
Alfredo with Sundried Tomatoes,
overtop of Gnocci. Truffle Mushroom Garnish
