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MAGNOLIA
Written and Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
Starring Jeremy Blackman, Tom Cruise, Melinda Dillon,
Philip Baker Hall, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ricky Jay,
William H. Macy, Alfred Molina, Julianne Moore,
John C. Reilly, Jason Robards and Melora Waters
My advice: Wait for VHS - it's a butt-breaker
Rating:  out of
NEWS FLASH! Movie-goers. If you are planning to partake in a
movie you must get all of your facts straight before you enter the theater. Do not arrive and then -- an hour or
more into a three hour flick like Magnolia - start discussing with your date whether you should be leaving or not.
If you do, people like myself might be prone to slam you over the head with their popcorn. Know what you're getting
in to. That's all I have to say.
The mere fact that I thought this was inventive, creative, whimsical and a great bit of fun means that 90% of the
American populace is going to hate it. There will be no in-between. Just pure, unadulterated hate on their part.
The premise of Magnolia is all about the odd little coincidences of life. The things that seem too strange to happen
but, invariably, always do. It's the way these oddities somehow tie us all together, linking us with the important
folks of our past, present and future, that forms the body of this film.
Please, just take a peek at the starring list up there. There is no way in hell I am about to name everyone and
the role and their importance to this script. If I did, I'd be here until mid next week. I am going to go on record
as saying this is the most fabulous piece of ensemble acting that I have ever partaken of. If I was to rate this
film based on the actor's merit alone, it would have netted a solid ten. Each part is a visual dish to savor and
there isn't a slacker amongst the lot of them.
I can also say this. Tom Cruise is on fire. His role is passionate and burning with an intensity I haven't seen
from him in years. Beautiful. Expect a nomination for Mr. Tom.
I loved this movie. I really did. I can only suggest you go in with an open mind and an open heart. This movie
wants to touch you, but it's going to try to do it in an "artsy" and amusing way.
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