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Autumn in New York - The KingLove Movie Guide Review 9/00
Starring Richard Gere and Winona Ryder. Directed by Joan Chen.
Attractiveness & Chemistry
OK, the cinematography sure was delightful. New York City has hardly ever looked so nice. Add to that Winona Ryder and Richard Gere - always pleasant to look at. They're great dressers and hopefully better un-dressers. However, the movie flounders. Even life threatening illness doesn't bring the film back to life. KingLove thinks we've found out why. Director Joan Chen grew up in a place where she wasn't allowed to read romance novels (China in the midst of Mao's Cultural Revolution). In an interview, Chen explained that books featuring boys and girls together in any way were not allowed. Hence, she has an obsession with love stories, heavy romance and sappiness. We're not kidding. If anyone finds an excuse for the writer, let us know…
Story line
A confirmed bachelor is reformed by a young, innocent beauty. Sound familiar for Mr. Gere? However this time he's more of an active playboy.. and Winona's not a pro. Music, dove symbolism, gazes of longing and heroic measures are the emotional cues to push all of your buttons. Love is in the air, but the romance never simmers.
Nookie Factor
The cinematography saves the day, adding to a special romantic interlude between Gere and Ryder. Meanwhile, the intimacy (not the nookie) between the two old pals, Gere and Anthony LaPaglia, in some ways eclipses that of the two lovers.
Comments from the People!
"Richard Gere is still the best movie kisser"
"It was DOA"
"Where were the gangs of disturbed youths in Central Park?"
"..finally, Winona gets to be a woman!"
"Maybe if Joan Chen was in the movie instead of directing it..."
KingLove's Overall Rating
Die hard Gere fans will get their fix, and Ryder may have her sexiest, most womanly role.. or should we say "roll"? If you cry during commercials for wireless phones and car tires, it'll be good for a cathartic tear or two. You may want to wait for the rental. Have a heavy makeout session. You won't miss all that much, and you won't even feel guilty!
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