WOODY ALLEN

Bil’s rating (out of 5):  BBBB.  USA, 1995.  Sweetland Films, Magnolia Pictures.  Screenplay by Woody Allen.  Cinematography by Carlo Di Palma.  Produced by Robert Greenhut.  Production Design by Santo Loquasto.  Costume Design by Jeffrey Kurland.  Film Editing by Susan E. Morse.  Academy Awards 1995.  Golden Globe Awards 1995.  National Board of Review Awards 1995.   New York Film Critics Awards 1995.    Toronto International Film Festival 1995.  

Woody Allen and Helena Bonham Carter play a happy couple who decide to adopt a baby and start a family. When the kid’s a little more grown up, Allen becomes curious as to his origins, noticing that his son is so smart and sensitive that he must come from good stock. The origin, however, turns out to be a daffyheaded porn star and prostitute (Mira Sorvino giving the performance of a lifetime) with a heart of gold and the stage name Judy Cum. Sorvino plays her character as ignorant rather than stupid, and after a few minutes of her charm she’ll win your heart. This breezy comedy, that takes the form of ancient Greek tragedies (and includes narration by a Greek chorus) is one of Allen’s most enjoyable.