Fabricated Truth

Review:

Small time crook Dustin Hoffman has screwed up. He has been caught selling stolen goods and now forces jail time. And while he happily steals money from his novice lawyer, he also takes her advice to visit his son to make a good impression on the judge seriously. On his way there, he witnesses a plane crash and saves all passengers by opening the door. But when reporter Geena Davis, who was on the plane, offers a million dollar reward for the hero coming forward, he is in jail and homeless Andy Garcia takes the credit. In short, things seem to be about as bas as they can possibly get, in this interesting, but flawed comedy-drama. Parts of it are just played for laughs, while other parts actually serve as an examination of human nature, the nature of heroics and so on. Some clever dialogue and a surprising, fast-moving story makes this film much better than it’s reputation. Just don’t expect a laugh a minute.

Random Observations:

Hero at the IMDb

The film was retitled Accidental Hero for the UK release. While I think the original title fits better, I understand the need to differentiate from the 762 other films called Hero.

Director Stephen Frears is today more known for his serious fare, like The Queen. In fact, I’m fairly certain that the film was at one point intended as a regular drama. Take away the tacky music and a few scenes, and little comedic is left.

Screenwriter David Webb Peoples also wrote such classics as Blade Runner and Unforgiven.

I think I shall make this Dustin Hoffman week. Expect more reviews of films with him in lead or supporting rules in the next days.