Diane Lane talented actress!
“Secretariat” is one of those Disney-style family movies where film-goers - thoroughly entertained by a cast of likeable characters (who propel the gripping piece of drama forward to an upbeat satisfying conclusion) - spontaneously applaud at the end of the flick as the credits crawl across the screen.
"Secretariat" is one of those Disney-style movies where film-goers thoroughly entertained by the likeable characters (who propel the gripping drama forward to an upbeat satisfying conclusion) spontaneously applaud as the end of the film as credits crawl across the screen.
After all, the well-produced flick - starring Diane Lane and John Malcovich - is based on a true story.
Track enthusiasts may recall that “Secretariat” - a celebrated racehorse (affectionately nick-named “Big Red” by the owners) - rode into the history books after winning the prestigious "Triple Crown" a scant few decades ago.
The film chronicles the inspiring tale in spell-binding fashion and manages to tug at the heart strings along the way.
Diane Lane is in top form in a role that suits her to a “T”.
Ms. Lane is one of those talented performers who has been blessed with the good fortune to be well-received by film buffs at pivotal points in her illustrious film-acting career over the years.
Years ago, Ms. Lane stirred up quite a bit of excitement on the lot at Universal Studios - and earned the reputation of a being a “seasoned pro” - when she turned up daily on the set of the teen rock hit - “Streets of Fire” - to play opposite another actor who turned out to be a flash in the pan.
As the classy actress made her rounds this past week to plug “Secretariat” on the talk-show circuit - it was quite evident that the low-key actress (though not always in the public eye screaming for attention like so many of her needy contemporaries) - still garners a lot of respect with the movie-going public, critics, and in the industry-at-large.
Indeed, this past weekend, the box office receipts called attention to a glaring fact.
Ms. Lane is still a big draw in the movie business!
In “Secretariat”, Lane portrays a housewife - who is suddenly thrust into the male-dominated realms of professional horse-racing - due to an unexpected turn-of-events in her private life.
With a hope and a prayer, Ms. Lane’s character tackles the challenge head on, in a scenario that proves to be very entertaining bill-of-fare for young and old audiences alike.
Not all the local critics were thrilled with the idea of having to screen a family-oriented film that moves along at its own steady - but slow - pace.
For instance, one reviewer made a snide remark that too much precious celluloid time was wasted on Ms. Lane gazing into the eyes of the horse to the film’s detriment.
What a ridiculous criticism!
In fact, the screen moments he was referring to - resonated with quite a few film buffs (myself included) - because during the duration of those insightful moments Lane’s character was subtly establishing a bond between horse and owner.
The dopey reviewer was too lame to figure that one out!
Take aim; after all, they shoot horses, don't they?
Duh!
John Malcovich, as usual, turns in a stellar performance as a quirky horse trainer with a lousy golf putt.
The established star of stage and screen literally mesmerizes - so seamless and authentic - is his characterization here.
In fact, Malcovich breathes life into a role that less competent actors would turn into a showy piece of jambone.
Come to think of it, Marlon Brando - an actor’s actor - has even managed to flirt with that theatrical sin on occasion.
Although the well-rounded cast of supporting players turn in high caliber performances, too - in the final analysis - the audience can’t help but root for the true star of the heart-warming flick.
The four-legged beauty who plays the horse!
Why did W.C. Fields always caution actors about working with animals and children?
Because, they steal the show, of course.
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