Central Library
Come On, No Witty Dialogue Was Promised
RECEIVED Thu., May 15, 2008
Dear Editor,
I'm sad to read Mark Savlov's review of Speed Racer, because it feels unfair [Film Listings, May 9]. I want the movie to be judged based on what it is and what it is trying to be: the motion-picture version of a shallow, fun cartoon. And yay, bonus (if you care or go to this kind of movie for "messages"), it has a few messages about doing what is "right.” Did the previews or the Wachowski brothers promise witty dialogue or deep, soulful connections between the characters? No! They promised us wild, fast, colorful action. In my opinion, they delivered!
This is the kind of movie meant to evoke a more visceral kind of emotion. It's a thrill ride! And the fact that the movie had any more (emotional) depth – it did – than the cartoon is just a bonus. We all know art is subjective, right? Is it fair to judge a cartoon-derivative action film based on character/plot/dialogue-driven standards?
I'm sad to read Mark Savlov's review of Speed Racer, because it feels unfair [Film Listings, May 9]. I want the movie to be judged based on what it is and what it is trying to be: the motion-picture version of a shallow, fun cartoon. And yay, bonus (if you care or go to this kind of movie for "messages"), it has a few messages about doing what is "right.” Did the previews or the Wachowski brothers promise witty dialogue or deep, soulful connections between the characters? No! They promised us wild, fast, colorful action. In my opinion, they delivered!
This is the kind of movie meant to evoke a more visceral kind of emotion. It's a thrill ride! And the fact that the movie had any more (emotional) depth – it did – than the cartoon is just a bonus. We all know art is subjective, right? Is it fair to judge a cartoon-derivative action film based on character/plot/dialogue-driven standards?
Scott Swain
