515 . 225 . 8208
Contact

Media Notes
Tickle the other half of your brain with our eclectic monthly selections

Sign up now...

musings on
synchronicity
and the value of
paying attention

Billed as an "offbeat romantic comedy," Benny & Joon tackles some serious subjects with a sly and compassionate sense of humor. Besides, seeing the relatively early performances of this stellar cast — including Johnny Depp's incredible Buster Keaton shtick — is certainly worth the price of renting the DVD.

Benny (Aidan Quinn) and his sister Joon, short for Juniper (played by Mary Stuart Masterson of Fried Green Tomatoes and other quirky films), have shared a house ever since their parents died. Joon stuggles with a fragile mental and emotional state that leaves her prone to starting fires, and also immersed in a colorful world of painting. Determined to care for Joon on his own, Benny operates an auto repair shop and plays poker with his buddies, but hesitates to consider a personal relationship for himself.

Then one night, Joon sits in for a hand of poker and wins — "a cousin." Sam (Johnny Depp), with his own 'unbalanced' approach to life, has been creating headaches for his cousin, one of Benny's poker friends. As a way to get Sam out of the house, the cousin 'bets' him in the poker hand Joon wins. Benny's not happy about the bet and the win, but he doesn't feel right about turning Sam out, so the trio take the first steps toward a new life.

In its good-hearted and subtle way, the film explores the nature of being a misfit and how the concept may only be in the eye of the beholder. With hilarious physical comedy by Depp (rollerskating through housework and as Buster-Keaton-in-the-park), as well as rich and understated performances by Quinn, Masterson, and Moore, this little gem of a film gets its message across with wit and heart. On the DVD, you'll find deleted scenes, costume and make-up tests, along with more on Depp's stunts.

<<Previous   |   Next>>

We respect your privacy and will not share your information with anyone.

Copyright ©2003-2009 Jill J. Jensen  |  All Rights Reserved  |  515 . 225 . 8208