RSS
Home
Movie Review: 'Management'
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Stephen Belber with Jennifer Aniston and Steve Zahn.
“Management” is the story of Sue Claussen (Jennifer Aniston) and Mike Crenshaw (Steve Zahn.) Mike spends his days doing yoga, taking keyboard lessons and helping his parents run their roadside motel. His aspirations are non-existent but his quirky personality makes up for his slacker lifestyle. He is a harmless and endearing chap, though even his parents say that he is “stuck.” Or is it that he finds joy in the little things?
When Sue, a corporate art saleswoman, checks in to the motel Mike’s horizons expand. He delivers a dusty bottle of wine to Sue’s room, “compliments of management.” Sue is clearly out of Mike’s league. If not for geography their paths would probably not even cross. But, Mike – in his simplicity – does not believe in limitations.
After nothing but a brief encounter, Mike bets it all on his future with Sue and buys a one-way ticket to Maryland only to find that Sue has no place for him in her calculated life. Still, we can see the question “what if?” lurking behind Sue’s eyes. Her mundane career leaves her wanting more. Is Mike on to something?
“Management” unspools in the style of a quaint indie film. No doubt, due to the fact that it's source material is a one-act play and the director, Stephen Belber, is "of the theater."
Aniston and Zahn turn in fine performances as leads, but the film also offers a host of brilliant actors in supporting roles. Margo Martindale is excellent as Mike’s terminally ill mother. Fred Ward delivers as Mike’s stoic father. James Liao’s character (Al) is introduced midway through the film and offers much needed levity. Tzi Ma’s brief role as a Buddhist monk also lifts the film at a crucial juncture. Woody Harrelson overshadows all in a memorable performance as a zany, almost scary, punker/yogurt mogul.
We’re left to wonder if Mike’s antics would charm or frighten somebody in the real world. In “Management” he makes an impression on Sue. She deems him harmless, which the audience must also do in order for this storyline to play out. His actions border on stalking. But, given his certainty that he and Sue should be together, he also remains innocent.
“Management” is a unique take on the classic romantic comedy. It offers a date night storyline that, thanks to Zahn, avoids becoming a chick flick. It takes a while to get where it's going but is worth the wait.
Related Articles:
Add a Comment
.jpg)
