Review

Crazy/Beautiful

Crazy/Beautiful

Director
John Stockwell
Year
2001
Rating
3 stars
Reviewed by
Gon Curiel a.k.a. Groucho
Review date
Monday, October 01, 2001

Confused, rebel teenager Nicole Oakley (Kirsten Dunst) finds no other way to live life than enjoying the moment, not thinking a bit about the future, until she falls in love with Mexican/American Carlos Núñez (Jay Hernandez), whose responsible attitude and huge concern about the future contrasts her way of life and makes her change bit by bit.

But is that all there is to it? It’s not. Carlos’s society doesn’t take his relationship very lightly, resulting in internal conflicts that might endanger his carefully designed structure of life. His dedication in school, sports and work might become weaker thanks to Nicole. After all, Carlos’ nosy mother (Soledad St. Hilaire) might not be so wrong every time she annoys him with questions about everything he does.

Carlos and Nicole fight for pure love even though everything around them proves them wrong. In the end, they might or might not prove that loving each other is more than enough...

This film is a simple, typical love story with a different background. Nevertheless, the freshness with which it’s presented gives it enough originality to please the audience. Besides, it introduces charming Hernandez in a major role that suits him to perfection.

But it is Kirsten Dunst in her best performance to date who makes this a most worthwhile experience. Her presence is always strong and her performance incredibly effective. You never know what to expect from her and from her complex character but there is always a delightful turn coming up.

All in all, this one’s a little film to enjoy without further compromise. One little film that will be gladly remembered by some in the future…

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Comments

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:

I can't rave enough about Kirsten's performance in this movie. She just blew me away. I knew beforehand that she was talented, but this... THIS you have never seen coming from her. Scene afer scene she's flawless, completely believable and heartbreakingly good. I love Kirsten. She has it all!

Oh, and the movie's good, by the way. Real and sad, romantic and crude...

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Jacinda wrote at 6/22/2002:

I'm more than happy to hear that you loved the movie. I was not sure if I wanted to see it - even though I admire Kirsten. But now that both of you said it was her best performance!! I can't believe she could top her role in 'The Virgin Suicides'.

I think 'crazy/beautiful' opens here next week. I'll be first in line.

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:

I think she did, but can't wait to hear your opinion!

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Coffee wrote at 6/22/2002:

...guess I'll put this one on my list for downloading soon ;-)

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Jacinda wrote at 6/22/2002:

I finally had the chance to see this one on the big screen. I am glad I didn't miss it. It is a small movie but worth seeing. I liked it a lot. Even though it is quite simple, it keeps the right spirit. A story that comes from the heart. Jay Hernandez gives a great performance as does Kirsten. I do consider her performance in 'The Virgin Suicides' her best so far though. ;)

Get your permanent avatar at Gravatar.com Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:

No problem, I'm glad we can agree on Kirsten being such an excellent actress!

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