Sandra Bullock is a darn fine marquee name for most lovers of light & frothy comedy (that is not to say she can't do serious as well) and in 'The Proposal', she gives real voice to a pretty good screenplay that is probably a little too 'script by numbers'. But it works, and the audience I saw it with absolutely loved it. They felt for the characters, laughed at the jokes, adored the casting, in particular Betty White and were relieved that it all works out somehow in the end. The film is well promoted even to the extent of having a game you can play (be Margaret's new assistant....'). www.myspace.com/proposalmovie Ironically Canadian, Ryan Reynolds is charming too and never oversteps the mark.
When I say that it is 'script by numbers', I don't mean it in a derogatory sense. The writer, Peter Chiarelli) has done his homework and the director (Anne Fletcher) has put in some pretty good hours on the visualisation and playing out of the lines and characters. The settings are terrific and there is a lot ot look at in every frame. Sandra Bullock's ability to do comedy is well-known and in this she also plays 'unpleasant' as well as 'annoying' but without ever becoming a figure of derision or being hateful. You just feel sorry for her all the way through and gradually, the root of her problems is revealed. She does 'self-deprecating' better than anyone and makes some brave choices including a ripper of a nude scene. Great waxing job by the way.
Her corporate suits are just fab too as is the oversized handbag. Mmmmmmmmm.
If you want to forget your troubles for a couple of hours go and see it. Don't over-analyse it. It is just fun.
In cinemas in Mexico at least at the moment. Check your local listings to see where.
