some films to avoid

Over the past several days we watched several movies that fell short of expectations. First Loverboy. Kevin Bacon directed what was intended to be a story of a damaged mother and her lover for her son. Though she is delusional and overbearing, we are meant to see the Anne Shirley-esque wonder with which she observes the world and escapes the truths of it. In actuality, we see pain, abuse, and selfishness. What is intended to be honest, tender, and compelling is, in fact, grotesque. A portrayal of an embittered and insane character, does not an art film make. The story is unique and creative, yet it relies too heavily on caricature. The focus meanders and leaves the viewer feeling not like a participant, nor witness, nor judge, nor juror; but like a movie viewer relieved to see the credits roll.
Another disappointment came in the form of Mike White's Year of the Dog. This one begins very humbly but with great power. he expertly introduces the characters, gives them meaning, and then subtly and deliberately hits several emotional chords. Then, half an hour in, he radically changes direction and again chooses caricature over character. These very people that so recently seemed multidimensional are now hammered flat. We are allowed a few glimpses of humanity several more times, but each quickly springs a leak.