Forever Lulu

Director and writer John Kaye has put a lot of heart into the making of 'Forever Lulu'. With an innovative story he tackles lots of different themes of love like a love between a husband and a wife, an undying love between a two former lovers that was interrupted by a mental illness and a love between parents and children. Part of 'Forever Lulu' is a road movie and the viewer is given some wonderful glimpses of the American landscape. The story is tight and moves at a steady pace. On the flip side, I wonder why the Steven Bauer- Penelope Ann Miller track was left open to the viewers. The performances by the three main leads are great. It is finally good to see Melanie Griffith do something of note. Her subtle yet spirited performance and occasionally (but suitably) explosive scenes reflect her skills as a talented actress. Patrick Swayze too gives a nuanced and understated performance. Penelope Ann Miller is wonderfully pulls off a role that could have easily been messed up by a lesser actor. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Richard Schiff have small roles but they have a welcoming presence. I also liked the soundtrack which is whimsical at times and gentle at others. The film is quite well executed overall and I wonder why I had not heard much about it during the last years. The film was more than I had expected because given the recent track record of the three leads I expected a lesser film but instead got a pleasant surprise.

I must admit when I first saw this movie come through on preview tape at the video store that I work at, I was a little apprensive to take it home and watch it, mainly because of Patrick Swayze who hasen't had a meaty role since GHOST. I was intrigued by the title and decided to give it a go. THANK GOODNESS I DID !!! This was the most funniest, saddest and beautiful movie I have seen in a long while. It is the sleeper of the year. Griffith shines as the fragile LULU who is stricken down by schizophrenia. After sixteen years LULU escapes from a mental institution and tracks down BEN (Swayze) who was LULU'S sweetheart back in college, before she was sick. She informs him that she gave birth to his son and now wants to make contact with him after all this time. So begins a road trip that will leave you wanting more. I will not spoil this movie for you, but let's just say a good box of tissues for the last 20 minutes of the film will be necessary. Swayze does a good job, but I feel he is overshadowed by Griffith, with her powerful performance. She has a real meaty role where as Swayze is stuck playing second fiddle. This is the only problem I can see with this movie, only because I adore Swayze and would have liked to see him play a better part, but he has a few great scenes, one very emotional and I cried all the way with him. Also look out for Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Third rock from the sun), he plays a very good role as LULUS biological son. All in all if you are looking for a movie that is not only funny, but with a real edge to it then this is it. I was sad, I cried and I shared all the moments on that road trip. This is a movie that is a definate in my movie collection, SHEER BRILLIANCE, 10 OUT OF 10.

Where this film isn't a masterpiece by any means, it is certainly worth the time. Melanie Griffith shines in her role as Lulu and Joseph Gordon-Levitt stands out yet again in the role of Martin. Unfortunately, his time is much too brief in the film, as I think he's probably the most underrated actor today. He's extremely believable in his role and he showed us exactly how one would act in the situation his character was in.

Give the film a shot, it's worth the time- forget some of the characters Swayze has played in the past and look at him for the character he's playing now. Watch Melanie become Lulu... And lastly, you'll believe Gordon-Levitt is Martin in the awkward situation he's been thrown into.

Acting is an A, film is a B.

If you had lived it or similar, then you would appreciate this powerful story much more... I am pleased it's only for we chosen few, as it is heartbreaking. My story is not quite the same, but has too many similarities for comfort. These things do happen and before you start squealing about content and acting and production, try thinking of a few others out here to whom it may mean a lot. I understand and agree about some of the dialog, but don't be so shallow and look only at the immediate appeal as entertainment. This is a deep and moving story well told. The dialog could improve, but tell me a movie where perfection in script, acting cinematography can't be improved somewhat. Have you produced or directed the perfect movie yet? V

Along for the Ride (or "Forever Lulu") is not a special film by any means. It's quite average like most films it has its moments. The only really surprising thing about it is how powerful the source music is at the end. Other than that the plot is pretty much predictable. Melanie Griffith does an absolutely amazing job in this film yet again and if you're a fan of hers its the only reason to see this film. Penelope Ann Miller is also quite good in a supporting part. If you have some time to kill this ain't bad.