dbborroughs Review of Winged Creatures

Winged Creatures (2008)

Good but it tries to do too much with too many for too short a running time

[6/10 · 27 April 2009]

Film about the aftermath of a shooting in a diner on the lives of the survivors, including the doctor who treats some of them and who just missed being part of the tragedy. Good multi-character story doesn't quite soar like the titled characters. There are too many characters for its brief running time (Man feeling lucky as a result decides to go on a gambling spree, the gambler's daughter, a waitress with a small baby, a doctor, two kids who bond but have their own problems, and the people around them) which means that some of them feel more rounded than others. Forrest Whitaker as the gambler seems to come off best, certainly he's the most likable. Kate Beckinsale is very good in what seems like a bland role as the waitress. It takes a great deal of effort in order to be that run of the mill and real. On a personal level I wasn't really thrilled with the tone of the film. I know this is a contemplative film but to me every moment seems to be dripping with deep meaning and almost lost in thought. Its not bad as such but the film seems to be screaming "Look at me! I'm deep and Meaningful!" as if its afraid to let the film's characters and situations speak for themselves. Worth a look, just don't expect the next "Crash" which this film seems to be trying to be.