The Bottom Line
"Vanya on 42nd Street" is a richly textured, beautifully acted study of human nature and subtle, complex family dynamics.
Pros
- Richly textured study of human nature
- Superb ensemble acting
- Emotionally and intellectually involving
Cons
- May move too slowly for some
- Lots of dialogue, little action
- DVD has no bonus materials of any significance
Description
- DVD containing the drama "Vanya on 42nd Street," directed by Louis Malle
- Features a superb ensemble cast, including Wallace Shawn, Julianne Moore, and Larry Pine
- Movie is a filmed version of Anton Chekhov’s play "Uncle Vanya"
Guide Review - "Vanya on 42nd Street" DVD
"Vanya on 42nd Street" is a richly textured, beautifully acted study of human nature and subtle, complex family dynamics. I think that this movie ranks with some of director Louis Malle's best work, including "My Dinner with André," a similar film that also features the talents of André Gregory and Wallace Shawn. "Vanya on 42nd Street" follows a group of actors as they perform in an abandoned theater on New York's 42nd Street. With this stark backdrop, the emphasis is on the talents of the actors, their expressive faces, and the power of words. I found "Vanya on 42nd Street" to be a superb, powerful, and moving drama. Wallace Shawn, Julianne Moore, and Larry Pine are among the actors in the wonderful ensemble cast.
