Should you watch this at weekend movie ticket prices? Yes!
Should you watch this at weekday movie ticket prices? Of course.
Secret ending? A mid-credits scene.
Running time: 106 minutes (~1.75 hours)
“Danny Collins” is a drama with comedy elements that is based partly on the experiences of Steve Tilston. It features an aging rockstar’s quest to make amends to his abandoned son. It stars Al Pacino (Danny Collins), Annette Bening (Mary Sinclair), Jennifer Garner (Samantha Donnelly), Bobby Cannavale (Tom Donnelly), Christopher Plummer (Frank Grubman), Katarina Cas (Sophie), Giselle Eisenberg (Hope Donnelly), Melissa Benoist (Jamie), and Josh Peck (Nicky Ernst). It is rated NC-16.
“Danny Collins” may seem like a light-hearted film that would have absolutely no impact on your life – but don’t be fooled by the trailers and posters. Though ostentatious and frivolous in appearance, the film is actually a deep and meaningful exploration of a father’s love for his son, and the lengths he would go to for his child. It also explores the struggle between being true to your art and selling out, and is ultimately the story of the difficult decisions that all artists have to make in life.
Highlights
Al Pacino charms as Danny Collins
Despite being self-centered and rather short-sighted in his world view, Danny Collins comes off as a very endearing old man who struggles to do the right thing in life, while succumbing to all the wrong things. He’s very enthusiastic in all his undertakings, and is never malicious or devious in his dealings. Of course, when you’re inebriated half the time, you tend to make questionable decisions – which is the crux of Danny’s issues. Nevertheless, the audience never loses sympathy for Danny Collins, and is always on his side.
Mary Sinclair is a wonderful foil for Danny Collins
Annette Bening’s performance as Mary Sinclair makes for a perfect pairing with Danny Collins. She’s everything he’s not, and her unavailability is what prompts Danny to be a better man. In the whole movie, only Mary has the personality and clout to show Danny a different perspective to things, and acts as the story’s anchor even as Danny gallivants across the plot. Her strength of character and graceful poise makes her an excellent romantic lead for the title character, even surpassing Samantha in terms of overall attractiveness.
A touching bromance between Danny & Frank
Despite bordering on being geriatrics, these two seniors are open and frank about what they mean to each other, be it to the other characters in the film or between each other. Their interactions already show you a rich wealth of history between them, and still they continue in being there for each other and working together for a common goal. It’s rare to see such a bromance at their age, but the duo manage to pull it off.
Themes of redemption and ideals
The inciting incident already establishes the theme of the movie – being true to oneself – and Danny himself is the very epitome of this ideal. His journey marks the second major theme of the film, which is redemption. Taken together, you can’t help but empathise with his struggle. Who hasn’t had to make the difficult decision of altruism over commercialism? These universal themes are what make the movie an appeal to all ages, even if you’ve never heard of John Lennon (really?) or Steve Tilston (more forgiveable).
It’s a feel good movie
In an age of action packed explosions and violently tragic beheadings, it’s refreshing to see a simple, straightforward story to reaffirm what all of us hope in life – that love conquers all things. Be it Danny’s familial love for his son, his romantic love for Mary, or even his brotherly love for Frank, he always manages to do the right thing in the end (despite his horrific number of inappropriate decisions). And if such a messed up rock star like Danny can do it, that bodes well for the rest of us mere mortals.
“Danny Collins” is a surprising hit and will probably be one of the more underrated movies of the year. Al Pacino Annette Bening’s sincere performances strengthen an already moving story, and the result is a heartwarming tale that everyone can identify it. I, for one, can’t find any letdowns for this film. Even if you’re not tired of the endless action of summer blockbusters, “Danny Collins” is still an excellent movie that every movie goer should catch.
“Danny Collins” opens 23 April, 2015 (Thursday).
This review was also published on Yahoo Singapore.
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