For complete schedules and mini-reviews see the Movie Times & Reviews and Indie & Rep Film. Rating: NNNNN
The Bridge Of San Luis Rey (directed by Mary McGuckian, 120 min)
Hmmm… a late-summer release of a period film based on an American literary classic, starring three Oscar winners? Let’s just say this does not sound promising. Statuette holders Robert De Niro , Kathy Bates and F. Murray Abraham join other front-rank stars like Gabriel Byrne and Harvey Keitel in director McGuckian’s adaptation of Thornton Wilder ‘s novel.
The book – already twice made into a film – is a philosophical tome about faith, love and chance. Set in 18th-century Peru during the Spanish Inquisition, it concerns five disparate souls who meet on the ancient rope bridge of the title.
Look for Byrne – the guy was born to do period – as a man questioning his faith and De Niro heading up the Inquisition.
Sky High (directed by Mike Mitchell, 102 min)
Can we really take another superhero movie? Or a high school comedy? Director Mike Mitchell , the man responsible for such gems as Surviving Christmas and Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, obviously thinks so. This Disney flick finds a suburban teen ( Michael Angarano ) entering a special high school that cranks out tomorrow’s superheroes. Problem is, although his parents are a caped duo played by Kurt Russell and Kelly Preston (aka Mrs. John Travolta), he’s got no powers himself. Bummer.
Look for former Kids in the Hall troupers Dave Foley and Kevin McDonald in smaller roles. But we’re most interested in seeing Lynda Carter – TV’s Wonder Woman, last seen in late-night infomercials – as the school principal. Both films open Friday (July 29). For venues and times, see Movies, page 97. Screened after press time – see reviews July 28 at www. nowtoronto.com/film.
