WOODY ALLEN

Bil’s rating (out of 5):  BBB.5.  

USA, 2000.  DreamWorks, Sweetland Films.  Screenplay by Woody Allen.  Cinematography by Fei Zhao.  Produced by Jean Doumanian.  Production Design by Santo Loquasto.  Costume Design by Suzanne McCabe.  Film Editing by Alisa Lepselter.  

Tracey Ullman is magnificent as Woody Allen‘s exasperated wife, who starts a cookie business as a front for her husband’s plans for robbing a bank.  The robbery goes bust but the cookie business becomes a multinational chain, making them nouveau riche without a clue as to how to live in the lifestyle of luxury (particularly as Allen has not lost the desire to steal).  Allen’s comments on the vulgarity of new money are of no particular consequence, and the film definitely suffers from being uneven between its two main plot lines (before and after hitting the jackpot), but it is all made worthwhile by the actors involved. Watch for Elaine May‘s brilliant supporting role as Ullman’s dimwitted cousin.

Golden Globe Award Nomination:  Best Actress-Musical/Comedy (Tracey Ullman)