May 2 , 2001


The Anniversary Party
(Fine Line Features) Rated R

Release Date - June 8, 2001

 

Directed by Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cumming.
Starring: Jennifer Jason Leigh, Alan Cumming, Jane Adams, Mina Badie and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Produced by Jennifer Jason Leigh,
Alan Cumming and JoAnne Sellar.
Written by Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cumming.

This is an insightful, powerful film that feels as real and unreal as life.  It is a sensational debut for Leigh and Cumming, as both writers and directors.  There was only one scene in the entire movie that I felt was overshot or distracting from the storytelling, which is quite unusual for first timers.  Of course, the question of recreating this effect when the two aren’t working in a relaxed atmosphere with real-life friends is real.  But, dear God, let them try.  Almost more importantly, this film is, for me, the second best DV feature film - The Celebration is #1 - ever made and probably the most accessible.  Cumming, Leigh and Bailey do what others have started to do with digital effects ... they use the tool instead of letting the tool use them.  Bravo and brava.

 

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