Friday, August 16, 2013

The Heat




          I was looking forward to this film.  I really was.  The idea of a buddy cop film starring two women peaked my interest.  It's no big secret in Hollywood that lead action roles are rare for women.  The Heat looked like a chance to break down a few boundaries, and show that women could kick as as much as the men can.
          Too bad that the movie falls just a big short of the mark.  The Heat relies too much on quircky comedy and characachers to be taken too seriously.  The opening sequence would have you believe its a throwback to cop films from the 70's.  Then modern day character types and personalities come right out.
           Sandra Bullock plays Agent Ashburn, a career woman who has given up on a personal life to be the best FBI agent around.  Despite her impressive record she is not taken seriously because of her off putting personality.
           Melissa McCarthy stars as Officer Mullins, the ruff cop from the streets that may be a pain in the ass, but gets the job done.  When these two meet up, it's a clash of personalities until they realize they both have the heart of being a good cop.
           McCarthy is the best thing going in this film.  She shines as every foul insult comes out of her mouth, but unfortunately it is Bullock's show and sometimes you have to wait for McCarthy to come back.
           While having some strong moments, this script falls apart toward the end.  The theme of women in a man's job gets touched several times.  A DEA agent becoming the personification of the misogynistic role for the women to deal with.
           Then the script falls into a bind, and just puts the remaining pieces its set up wherever it can.  It might not be the greatest story development, but hey its there.  Somebody did there job.
          Wait for this movie to come out on dvd.  You'll get a few laughs.

3/5 Stars


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