Amazon.co.uk Review
Edward Norton has already impressed as an actor; now it's as first-time director of this charmingly inoffensive romantic comedy. On top of that, we can add a musical savvy. Not only does each cut from this album work beautifully to film, it's also been sensibly re-ordered here for easy listening. Five close-miked, upbeat, soul-searching songs (Tom Waits, Peter Salett, Elliott Smith, and Travis Pickle) are a perfect mood setter. Then comes elder statesman Elmer Bernstein (
The Great Escape,
The Magnificent Seven,
The Grifters) with a jazzy touchy-feeliness that promises romance is alive and well somewhere in Hollywood. Piano, brushed drums and bass make up a core lounge-style set, augmented for the really passionate on-screen moments by the occasional orchestral swell. Saved for last is a little pick-you-up with "Play That Funky Music (White Boy)" from Wild Cherry, and "Got To Be Real" (Cheryl Lynn). This is definitely something to cheer away the blues. --
Paul Tonks