The Almost Perfect Bank Robbery

This movie was meant to be an 80's farce... but the producers hesitated missing the entire timing of the theme.

Of all the Movies of the Week I've made in the past several years, this remains the one I had the best time making, and at the same time, achieves most of what I was trying to do as a filmmaker. But, alas, it remains on the shelf at CBS, caught in a tangle of 'internal politics', or so I'm told. If it ever sees the light of day, check it out.

This is one of the few films where the characters have accents that don't sound phony. And that is not all that is in good order with this charmer. A variety of portrayals characterizing southern personality types is funny in itself. The plot is very simple and places more responsibility on acting and integration of other film making elements to create a valid viewing experience. From the sound and music to clothing and sets, it all fits. While there is nothing unpredictable about the Almost Perfect Bank Robbery, nothing is offensive either. A good example of what can be done without a large cast and production crew to create a first class picture. I loved it and wish it was a little longer so I could enjoy it more.

While this clearly isn't the greatest movie ever made,it sure is a pleasant way to spend a couple of hours. Brooke Shields doesn't get the credit she deserves for her talent,and even Rip Torn does a good job here. One big reason for most people to rent or buy it in the blow-out bin (I paid $1.25) at a discount store is that there is no violence in the movie,no sex scenes,and no foul language. I don't have any kids,but I suspect the people who do and who want to pick a movie the whole family can watch and enjoy will appreciate the harmless fun in this movie. Their choices have to be pretty slim,so this one would be a good one to recommend to your friends who do have young children.

Having recently been given a big box of DVD's, I thought to myself, as with most things, that I would save the best until last and start off with the bad. This was the first out of the box and I have to admit to being very pleasantly surprised. Now, a mark of 5 out of 10 may not prove my point.....and here is why. As soon as I started watching I said to myself 'Channel 5 (UK) afternoon TV movie', without knowing at the time that was exactly what it was. Supposedly based on a true story, the plot is very thin and very much a no brainer. However, there are 4 very well know stars in the film which was very much a coup for a TV movie. And it's 3 of these 4 that pull this movie through. Alessandro Nivola has a minor 'stooge' role, but Brooke Shields' very purposefully overacted ditsy performance is pretty good........if just a bit annoying at times. In fact, it seems that all of the main 3 women's roles were overacted. I have no idea why. Dylan Walsh is good as Shields hapless boyfriend and Rip Torn was..........well, Rip Torn really. I don't have to 'plot spoil' here as the films title totally says it all.

All in all, an above average TV movie with a good cast and good performances.