NICOLE ALBERTSON
Staff Writer
Diane Keaton and Mandy Moore are bringing entertaining romantic comedies back to theaters with their new movie, “Because I Said So.” The film provides audiences that have been disappointed lately with theater options a refreshing and classic romantic comedy that offers carefree entertainment.
Milly, played by Moore, is the youngest of three sisters and the daughter of a neurotic single mother named Daphne, played by Keaton. As Daphne nears her 60th birthday she attempts to take control of her daughter’s life and find Milly a soul mate by taking out a personal ad. Of course, drama ensues when Milly finds herself caught in a love triangle between two different men — her mother’s perfect choice and her mother’s perfect nightmare.
But the true love story is between mother and daughter. Keaton and Moore play off each other’s neuroses proving that there is no bond like the strength built within family. Their dysfunctional dependency on each other to navigate through life and direct affection is an eye-opening revelation for those who thought they no longer needed parental advice. Keaton’s interaction with Moore also reminds rebelling children of their parent’s humanity. Their open sexual discussions and inevitable lectures open up the audience to a deeper and more intimate parental relationship.
Moore does a wonderful job as eccentric and boy-troubled Milly. With her previous acting experience, Moore is finding her niche in the comedy world. She is learning how to hit the timing and queues, which help her castmates play off of her reactions. While it seems like she still needs to learn how to keep her personalized hand flares, distracting verbal asides and overacting under control, she puts other singers-turned-actresses to shame — ahem, Mariah Carey in “Glitter.”
After guest starring roles on television shows like “Scrubs” and HBO’s “Entourage” and previous roles in “Saved” and the “American Idol” spoof “American Dreamz,” Moore has distinguished herself from her pop-singing “Candy” days of the 90s. Along with her film release and clothing line at Fred Segal, Moore seems to be following in J. Lo.’s footsteps by putting out another album later this year. All she needs is a gravity defying dress, a few divorces and a new perfume.
Classic Keaton shines in the film as the overbearing mother who muddles in her children’s lives and then denies her involvement. Her talent and experience stand out as she enables the audience to love her annoying, controlling and overwhelming character. As Keaton flutters around on the screen rattling off streams of almost indecipherable nonsense, she channels back to her roots as in Woody Allen’s eccentric film “Annie Hall.” Keaton is proof that long-lasting acting careers are possible for the truly talented.
Supporting roles by Lauren Graham and Piper Perabo as Milly’s older sisters add the sarcastic and witty elements that sweet and innocent Moore cannot pull off. Graham’s quick remarks and Perabo’s overt sexual comments — while often expected from the duo — deliver occasional awkward laughs when said in front of Keaton’s 60-year-old character.
Set in Pepperdine’s playground, Los Angeles and Venice, it is exciting to recognize the familiar breathtaking ocean and skyline that are integral to the area and this film.
“Because I Said So” introduces new activities, such as museums and shows, that to most are unknown. The good nature and up-beat attitude of the movie gives Southern California a personality that it is not often allowed — happiness.
The film accomplishes its goal. With the handsome male actors competing for Moore’s attention, Keaton’s neurotic activity reminding children of their own mothers and giggles and smirks gained from romantic dialogue and Moore’s clumsy behavior, “Because I Said So” lives up to its romantic comedy genre as a light and entertaining feel-good film.
02-08-2007