Benny & Joon

Stars: Johnny Depp, Mary Stuart Masterson, Aidan Quinn & Julianne Moore

Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik

Written by: Barry Berman & Lesley McNeil

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Running Time: 98 minutes

On a personal note this is one of my favourite Johhny Depp movies and since Johnny is my favourite actor that means this must be one of my overall favourite movies. I've decided to do my reviews on a grading type pattern. I will grade the main actors, the plot and the writing. I will not judge the directing because I wouldn't know if it was good or not anyway. At the end I will give an overall grade of the movie. 

Main Stars:

Johnny Depp- As always Johnny does a superb job in this movie. His playing of an eccentric man is hilarious while at the same time heart warming. He seems to be able to make you laugh even during intense moments. Facial expressions have always been his go to acting job and that did not change in this movie. The look on his face while Benny explained that Joon was mentally ill was priceless. Grade: 10 out of 10.

Mary Stuart Masterson- A good job here by the leading lady. At time I began to actually think she may be mentally ill. Her acting is top notch throughout and the little things are what makes it great, such as remembering to do hand movements like she is in pain even during the funny park scene.Grade: 8 out of 10.

Aidan Quinn- What probably should of felt like the leading man was downgraded to the co star because he was out shone by Johnny. That does not mean that he did not pull his own weight. The scene when he kicks Sam from the house and fights with Joon is amazing and pulls me in and makes me feel for him. Grade: 7.5 out of 10.

Julianne Moore- Character she plays is not seen much but plays a pivotal role in the outcome of the other characters. Her acting is limited more by the flat chracter then by her ability. Even with this fact I still enjoyed each moment that she is on the screen. Grade: 7 out of 10.

The Plot:

The plot of this movie is well executed and thought up while being a little corny at times. Seems like forced sappiness but the acting and writting save it from seeming like a family channel movie. Overall when a plot can make you feel for all the characters and care for the outcome I think that is definitely a pass. Grade: 8 out of 10.

The Writing:

The writers of this movie deserve to be commended on there incredible job. The one liners are hilarious and well placed. The imspirational speech by Sam and the fight between Benny and Ruthie are well written and cause feelings to form when you least expect it. The final scene was perfect and leaves the audience knowing that everything is going to be okay in the lives of these character: Grade: 9 out of 10

Overall:

This movie is a great feel good romantic comedy which leaves the audience wanting more of these characters. Grade of the Overall movie is 49.5/60=82.5% or an A.

Until next time, Have fun and watch something good.