Remakes of the famous and often brilliant European movies, in English, are quite a common thing especially in Hollywood. Many very popular movies like “Wicker Park” (with Josh Hartnett) and “Vanilla Sky” (with Tom Cruise) are actually more-less successful remakes of already critically acclaimed films from Europe. “Blind date” is no different since it is a remake of award winning Dutch movie (with the same title), directed by a cult author Theo Van Gogh.
Unlike many remakes that make you think “Why did they have to ruin the original”, this one brings something new and fresh, and stands out like a great unique piece of art.
The creative force behind this motion picture is an acting veteran, one of America’s favorite actors, and 2 times Golden Globe and Emmy winner – Stanley Tucci. He had two major challenges here, to direct and to act in a leading role and amazingly (and expected at the same time) – he was great in both roles.
“Blind date” is a story about a middle aged couple, whose beloved daughter was killed in a car crash, and it literally ruined their lives, tore them apart and left them incapable of moving on. In all that misery and desperation, they decide to publish their personal ads, and start going on blind dates (with each other) each time playing another character and picking another name and role, while acting that they’ve never met before. This little game helps them reinvent and rebuild their relation and discover whole new levels of intimacy they’ve been keeping deep inside.
Stanley Tucci is not the only household name/superstar in this movie. Critics favorite – Patricia Clarkson once again proves to be one Hollywood’s biggest stars (form the shadow). The actress whose remarkable roles in “Dogville”,” Lars and the real girl”, “Good night and good luck” and “Saturday Night Live” we all remember; sparks once again in a memorable role of a grievous mother.
“Blind date” is one of those movies that make you think. It is more positive than majority of movies coming from America nowadays. Maybe it’s Theo Van Gogh’s sensibility shining through; maybe it’s Stanley Tucci’s great expression.
However, this is a movie you should see, because you will be happier, calmer and emotional after you do, and even better – it will help you separate right from wrong, important from silly and leave you inspired to chase and eventually find your own peace.
Release Date: September 25, 2009
Genre: Romance, Drama, Remake
Starring: Patricia Clarkson, Stanley Tucci, Thijs Romer
Director: Stanley Tucci
Writer: David Schechter, Stanley Tucci
Running Time: 1 hr. 20 min.
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributors: Variance Films
Official Website: VarianceFilms.com
Photos: Not Available
Review: Not Available
Trailers: Blind Date Trailer
