Did Rex Reed See the Same 'Reader' I Saw?

Saturday

Jan312009

Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 1:02PM

I noticed an ad running for The Reader here at The Big Picture, and I'm happy for the business. But something really stood out to me about the ad, and it wasn't the plaudits for Kate Winslet's Oscar-nominated performance, but rather the blurb from Rex Reed.

Reed has been at this movie criticism game for years. He tends to take a home run swing if he loves something or if he hates it. So when you see in big, bold letters, "A masterpiece," don't pay attention to that. It's just his style. I rarely call anything a masterpiece because I don't believe they come around every year. In Rex's case, there were at least four masterpieces in 2008, because this was his number four film of the year.

But look right above that, and you'll see what's confusing me:

Uh...what? The Reader was uplifting? I mean, to the degree that you won't find too many films more uplifting? Let's see...Holocaust, statutory rape, illiteracy, decades of guilt and shame, suicide, Germany, war crimes trials, prison...yeah, they're all on my happy day checklist.

I think that quote completely misdirects potential moviegoers. You can call it powerful, controversial, provocative, raw, redemptive, and profound, but uplifting? Don't know that I'd use that one.

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Reader Comments (5)

Haha!! Wow! It goes to show people will say anything for money these days.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 |

Natalee

Rex did this a few years ago with Million Dollar Baby...I remember reading his review and being excited to see what I thought would have me leaving the theatre a happier and motivated person. Instead, I walked out with my jaw dropped and unable to every look at Hillary Swank the same. The Reader, uplifting, doubtful. Slumdog Millionaire on the other hand...my review for that, "One of the most uplifting movie experiences of your life. A Masterpiece!" Well, I agree about the "masterpiece" comment...but Slumdog was damn good.

Monday, February 2, 2009 |

Tim

Uplifting ? Which medications is Reed abusing anyway? Did he even see the film? Perhaps it was the Nazi death camp scenes or the climactic suicide that gave Rex such a lift. I think it's time the Observer consider a replacement.....and QUICK !

Friday, March 6, 2009 |

Todd

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