Hollywood & Wine

Stuck in Antwerp on a rainy day when this film appeared, oddly, on the Prime Network "family" channel. While absolutely not kid friendly, I found this film a well paced recreation of classic screwball comedies, from Bringing Up Baby to The Owl and the Pussycat.

Surprising cast, clever cameos. All the female eye candy is smart and tough, not victimized and in need of rescue. Nicky Whelan is my new favorite as the pragmatic Diane Blaine. Norm MacDonald's character Sid delivers a classic running deadpan joke that rivals "The Aristocrats" for filth and fun. Not high art, but a real good time that doesn't patronize or front.

I'd be surprised if something in this movie didn't offend you, but more surprised if it didn't simultaneously make you laugh. A bit of an inside joke for those of us who have lived in or around Hollywood and are familiar with the weird business of getting entertainment work, but not so much that other viewers will mind. If you have a couple of hours to have some harmless (but decidedly adult) fun, check out Hollywood and Wine.