“History repeats itself”; it’s what we’ve been taught since early childhood. Ok, I’ll buy it, but why is it movies, essentially creative outlets for expression, are being applied to this same concept and have been since I can remember? They don’t have to, so why does that handful of filmmakers out there believe taking what’s been done before and making it “better”, or updated to fit the fast-changing times, is what we want to see? I mean who really believed Vince Vaughn could actually pull-off the classic performance Anthony Perkins gave as Norman Bates (besides Gus Van Saint) and do it better? Come on. Don’t get me wrong, there are some remakes (and I mean a small portion), that do break the mold and offer something new and insightful to its viewers whether good or bad. This summer’s highly anticipated The Thomas Crown Affair is Hollywood’s most recent attempt for this kind of recreation. Pierce Brosnan (007) and Renee Russo (Tin Cup) team up in John McTiernan’s (Die Hard) version of the 1968 film. Straying from the comedic- romance style of the older version, McTiernan spices things up a bit with a whole lotta attitude and just enough action.
Suffering from the “poor me, I’m rich and bored” syndrome, Thomas Crown (Brosnan) seeks out a challenge, but stealing a museum’s priceless Monet is only half the battle. Enter Catherine Banning (Russo), a saucy red-headed insurance investigator who’s keen eye and seductive moves proves her to be a worthy adversary. The thrill of the chase and battle of wits keeps the two on their toes, along with the audience as well. Brosnan and Russo’s chemistry is undeniable and you can’t help but be entertained by their psychological game.
Breaking away from his Bond-type persona, Brosnan appears more relaxed and at home in his role as Thomas Crown. Yes, he still has the sultry voice and distinct mannerisms, but rest-assured; there are no out of corner glances and annoying head tilts. Russo also gives a great performance as the complex Catherine Banning. With ease and style she is able to transition between the hard-nosed detective after blood, to the vulnerable female longing for love.
The Thomas Crown Affair, although entertaining and somewhat intriguing, lacks one major element: surprise. Instead of hitting the audience over the head with obvious set-ups, McTiernan could have been subtler in his choices. The beginning of the film is full of cheesy one-liners with emphasis on the heat and museum layout (key points for figuring out the robbery). Is it honestly that unfathomable for a director to believe in the intelligence of his audience? I must say that I was somewhat insulted by the blatant giveaways. Nevertheless, the movie keeps the pace with some clever dialogue and surprising turns.
As far as remakes go, The Thomas Crown Affair is a nice repeat of history one worth checking out. With enough significant changes and updated material, it’s sure to cure any case of summertime boredom, but don’t expect it to be a challenge.
+ Ashley Adams
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