Film Review: Committed (2000)

Film Review: Committed (2000) | Ecency

(source: tmdb.org)

Goran Višnjić probably wishes that his Hollywood career was as grand as successful as described by most film critics in his native Croatia. One of the films in he appeared and which received significantly less enthusiasm among critics in other parts of the world is Committed, 2000 romantic comedy written and directed by Lisa Kruger. Protagonist, played by Heather Graham, is Joline, young woman who takes her marriage wows very seriously. So, when her husband, news photographer Carl (played by Luke Wilson), leaves their New York City home in order to start new life, she is determined to bring him back at all cost. But this proves to be very difficult, because Carl apparently doesn’t want to be found. Joline is determined and after the trek that brought her all over America she finally finds Carl in El Paso, where he found job in local newspaper. She decides not to confront him openly and instead decides to play the role of “guardian angel” and observe things from distance. She discovers that Carl began romantic relationship with waitress named Carmen (played by Patricia Velazquez). That doesn’t deter her from her mission to reunite with her husband, just like romantic advances by charming local artist Nell (played by Višnjić) don’t lead her to temptation.

Partly because it was written and directed by woman and partly because Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival, this relatively low budget independent film was hailed as some sort of feminist manifesto. In reality, Committed fared very poorly among critics following its general release and many of the initial praise was quite undeserved. The film is “high concept” romantic comedy in a way that gives that genre bad name. It is filled with cliches, lacks any proper humour and Kruger has difficulties of constructing plot. The only good thing in this film is provided by some members of the cast. Patricia Velazquez is very effective in imitating Sandra Bullock, while veteran Mexican actor Alfonso Arau is good as Carmen’s grandfather that dabbles in magic. Dylan Baker is also good as editor of local newspaper. Unfortunately, Heather Graham seems unwilling ore unable to carry this film and Luke Wilson, actor who at times can be effective, is quite wooden here. Committed ends as complete disappointed that shouldn’t be recommended even to most loyal of Višnjić’s fans.

RATING: 2/10 (-)