Desson Howe

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Behind The Screen
With Desson Howe
Washington Post Film Critic
Monday, June 11, 2001; 12:30 p.m. EDT

Washington Post film critic Desson Howe brings Behind The Screen Live Online for a discussion on filmmaking and the art of the cinema. Have you ever wanted to know what the director had in mind when making a particular film? Or why the producer altered the original screenplay? Why was an actor or actress cast over another? Howe has answers to these and other questions about filmmaking.

Howe has been a movie critic at The Washington Post for 13 years. He was raised in England, where he attended private school in Surrey. Although he was entranced, like most children, by Walt Disney movies, he says it was a visit to the local theater in the mid 1960s, to see David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia," that made him realize movies had to be a part of his life.

Howe is online Mondays at 12:30 p.m. EDT.

A transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

Desson Howe: Hello, everyone. Back again for more movie questions, queries and general chat. Fire away.

Arlington, Va.: Mr. Howe:
Here is a question I hope you won't duck! What is your reasoning behind slamming practically every single movie that is released with the exception of the "artsy" type films? If everyone based their decision on whether to go see a movie based on your review, there would be no such thing as Hollywood or the movies. Your response would be very appreciated.

Desson Howe: I don't slam movies by category, as you think. I just slam movies I don't like. I slam art movies and I give the thumbs up to mainstream movies. I think anyone who reads me regularly wouldn't make the generalization you just did. But you do draw a valid point, in that I don't give a thumbs up easily. It's hard for me to get excited about a movie that's full of special effects but has a mediocre story. But there are thousands of critics who can't wait to tell you how good every movie is, and you'll see them regularly on movie ads. There's enough room in there for me, I think.

Eugene, Oregon: What will be the sleeper of summer 2001?

Desson Howe: That's impossible to predict, of course. None has emerged yet. And it depends on what you call a sleeper. Does it have to be low budget or low expectation?

Washington, DC: Was swordfish really that bad? Is Atlantis really that good? (read the N.Y. Times Review of it). Finally, heard anything good or bad about Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back?

Desson Howe: Swordfish has some tremendous visual effects, which anyone can pay for and put into a movie. But at heart, it's an empty, mediocre story. Atlantis I see tonight, and I always hold out hope for Kevin Smith films, even though I haven't been overly impressed by anything he's done since Clerks. The trailer looks like it could be fun.

Crystal City: Desson, are you surprised at the performance of Swordfish, Shrek & Pearl Harbor this weekend. PH seems to be dropping off fast. I get the feeling that Shrek has done so well only because its the only kid-friendly movie in the theaters.

Desson Howe: I don't think $18 million is so impressive for a movie that was hyped that much. I don't think Swordfish will hold beyond this week. Shrek is hanging in there because it's a good movie. And it's as much a grown up movie as a kid flick. And Pearl is dropping because the word of mouth is out: it's special effects with a dumb story attached.

Quills: Wow! Saw Quills last night on DVD and thought it was quite good. Don't remember any buzz about it when it was in theaters. Did it get good reviews? Attendance?

I couldn't help thinking, "Good Golly, Leaf-I-Mean-Joaquim Phoenix actually -- can -- act!"

Desson Howe: It had quite a lot of buzz and pretty strong reviews, in general. And its actor was nominated for best actor.

N.Y.C.: Is the current dismal Hollywood output indicative of the medium's shortcomings or is it a product of "bottom-line" business run amok? Is there any hope of resuscitating Hollywood films or should we look for one or two great indie-films to come along every year midst the usual bloated Hollywood detritus (i.e. Tomb Raider, Pearl Harbor, more sequels, etc.)?

Desson Howe: The bottom line business is what blesses Hollywood and what curses it. It's the McDonalds of art. Great for hunger, terrible for nutrition. But the box office numbers are always high. People always want to see movies. There are always opportunities for spectacle movies to be entertaining and great. Star Wars and all its sequels are both, for instance.

The good news is, we see a lot more indie films--and they've become part of the mainstream. I mean, when Pulp Fiction is a mainstream hit, there is clearly a sea change in the audience. More and more people aren't satisfied with the tired Hollywood formula./ They want more.

D.C.: Hi, Desson. Not a movie question, but a rant: Why, oh WHY, do people think it's OK to talk during a movie? I think this is the height of rudeness! As an avid moviegoer, it seems like this is happening more and more lately. I nearly hit the roof on Sat. night, though. I was settling to watch Moulin Rouge at Union Station and right as the movie started, three older teens came clamoring into the theatre, made a ton of noise as they walked down the aisle, then proceded to TALK (with their regular speaking volume)and LAUGH (at completely inappropriate times) throughout the entire movie!! I was tempted to get the usher, but I was all the way inside the row. You could tell that everyone else in the theatre was annoyed as well, cause as soon as the movie was over, everyone started yelling at them to finally be quiet. Their response? "Shutup (expletive)!" UGH! So, here's my question, then. What's the protocol here? I feel like these girls totally ruined my night out, but what could I have done? And why would people want to spend $8.50 to talk? They can do that at home for free!! Thanks for letting me rant...

Desson Howe: Don't even warn them. Get up quietly as if going to the bathroom, tell the manager that people in Row 33 are started a major disturbance (feel free to exaggerate, you'll get a faster managerial response.) Sit down quietly just before the manager or usher comes. Go back to the manager until it stops. It will. Plus you avoid a fight or unpleasant verbal exchanges.

EraserheadGuy, D.C.: I'd just like to confirm your assertion that, contrary to Arlington's opinion, you do "slam art movies." I still regretfully remember your negative opinion of "Eraserhead," and hope someday you will give it another chance. In the meantime, keep up the good work.

Desson Howe: Well, thanks E-head.

Baltimore, Md.: Pegging off of an earlier question about your tough thumbs up ... Aren't critics so 'in the loop' that you bring so much preconceived bias to your initial viewing of a film. By that I mean, we as readers and moviegoers, we constantly shy away from 'spoilers' that would dampen our enjoyment and perspective of a film. How does a critic keep 'spoilers,' in your case, industry buzz and inside poop about this star, or that script doctoring, from clouding your reviews?

Desson Howe: I avoid as much of the publicity junk as I can. I do not watch Entertainment Tonight or even care about whether such and such a picture is doomed because Julia fought with the director, or whatever. I just sit down and watch. I hear other critics yakking on about the stuff you mention, but I tune it out. And I don't read other reviews, if I can help it, before writing mine. I sympathize with your POV. I hate reading too much about a movie before it comes out, unless it's a review that makes me aware of how good something is that I wouldn't have gone to, otherwise. And previews totally ruin movies these days, since they tell you everything to expect.

Washington, D.C.: Gosh, I feel so dense. I just made the connection between River Phoenix and Joaquin. Duh. I remember that whole hippy family was always in the mags. Do River and Joaquin come from different fathers bc they don't obviously look like brothers....?

Desson Howe: Let me direct you to this website: http://www.riverphoenix.alwayshere.net/Biography.html

It'll tell you everything: about the Phoenix family, and the evolution of their names, the family's lifestyle etc. It's fascinating stuff.

Williamsburg, Va.: Why don't they stop making movie trailers that show all the good parts and borrow Hitchcock's idea of making original trailers that are entertaining in themselves (and give nothing away)?
Trailer hater

Desson Howe: Good question.

MagnoliaGuy, Alex., Va.: Swordfish was perhaps the worst Hollywood movie I've seen in years along with Hannibal.

I enjoy good bottom-of-the-barrel exploitation films but when Hollywood spends $100 million on a film like Swordfish all I sense is the absolute contempt for the intended audiences. Hannibal wasn't even gory enough to on the par with the best Dario Argento or Mario bava.

the sheer incoherence of the plot (such as it was) was why I hated Swordfish so especially.

And even as a white male, I was offended at the scene where Halle Berry is strung up and almost hung with a rope. Doesn't Hollywood have anything better to do for a black actress these days than lynch them in the service of a hackneyed heist plot? Hugh Jackman and Don Cheadle are fine actors and should be ashamed of themselves for appearing in this crap.

Desson Howe: I see I'm not the only one who thinks the special effects emperor ain't wearing clothes.

Alexandria, Va.: I NEVER go to the movies at Union Station. I've had way too many movies spoiled by kids talking too loud and arguing to ever go back. The ushers and management there do NOTHING. I voted with my feet, and know a lot of people who have done the same. It's the worst theater in the area.

Desson Howe: Interesting. That theater supposedly was good at stopping noise. Too bad.

Bethesda, Md.: will you be reviewing Tomb Raider? I'm not a big action film person but the trailer looked awfully good. Any buzz about whether it is good or bad?

Desson Howe: I'm looking forward to it. I see it Tuesday night. Ooops, isn't that a mainstream movie. I'm not supposed to like it, right? I forgot.
A new wrinkle occurred this weekend for me. A friend told me--a male friend on the wrong side of 45, let's say--that he loves to watch the actual Tom Raider game because Lara Croft, the hero, makes suggestive, almost orgasmic sounds whenever she's traversing obstacles. And he felt that this is why she has such a huge following. Any Lara fans out there got a comment ?

Laurel: Do you ever wonder, or think about when watching a film or doing a review, if the film might work better or worse for you (who sees a lot of films) than someone who doesn't possess your background about film?

I see maybe 20-25 movies a year in theatres, so I didn't bother with Pearl Harbor, since I read reviews first. But I was at a party this weekend where a couple of people said something along the lines of "I hardly ever go to films, but it was great."

Well, PH might appeal to people who don't see how trite the underlying story was and are wowed by special effects. Do you ever think "There's nothing creative here for a critic to appreciate, although some people probably would enjoy this film"?

Desson Howe: Of course I'm going to be harder to please than people who don't see movies much. But what value is a reviewer who loves everything just because it's a movie and, wow, aren't movies terrific? Don't you think it's useful to have someone with informed views? It's not elitism, either.

It's still a free country, last time I checked. I think people can enjoy a movie on any level they want. Critics aren't ayatollahs. They just give informed (or malformed) opinions. There are all sorts of moviegoers with different sophistication levels. And you can't cater to all of them. If you cater to the simplest moviegoers, you leave a great many people high and dry, moviegoers who seek insightful reviews. Instead of those critics who are basically cheerleaders for the industry.

University of Maryland, College Park: Hi Desson! My first time ever e-mailing you but in your short bio I see you went to school in Surrey. Is Surrey many different parts or one city? For instance Richmond-Surrey I've heard of because the late great Ronald Colman (one of my favorites from the golden age) is from there.

Also at National Gallery of Art I caught two Eric Rohmer pictures on Friday: "Chloe's Knee" and "Chloe in the Afternoon." Seen or heard of these?

Desson Howe: Hi to you U of Md. In terms of the English question, Surrey is a county. Richmond is a place within Surrey. And I'm glad you caught up with the Rohmer films at the Gallery. It's a great opportunity--that particular series--to see many of the French filmmaker's works.

Re: Union Station: I went there to see Shrek, but when I saw the number of kids in line, I turned and left before buying a ticket. I knew I'd be lucky to hear the movie for the noise.

Desson Howe: Well, it's worth the wait. Try seeing it another time.

D.C.: Hi Desson-

Just wondering about your opinion on Sony being sued in a class action lawsuit over the David Manning situation. I personally think it is actually a good thing, even though I'm normally against frivolous lawsuits. False advertising is false advertising. What's your take?

Desson Howe: Well, I think it's absurd that Sony felt compelled to portray a false movie critic. As I said before, there are so many goofballs who give the thumbs up to everything (so they can be quoted, among other things), they didn't even need to make someone up. I also think this country's ridiculously litigious. Suiing about this is absurd, too. I think.

London England : Be assured Desson, Lady Lara spits on Charlie and his pouty Angels. Pity she can't smack the flabby Travolta around a bit.

Desson Howe: I think I detect a good friend from England there with a certain charming daughter named Lara. Be warned: John Travolta has body guards.

Re: Lara Croft's orgasmic sounds: Actually, Angelina Jolie herself commented on those noises in a recent issue of Premiere Magazine. Maybe it was the May issue, picked it up overseas...

Desson Howe: Woa. It's twue, it's twue.

Washington, D.C.: It seems like Baltimore has a better film scene than D.C. right now, in terms of screening smaller indie films. Visions has helped a lot but the Charles still seems to be ahead of them. Do you agree? If so, any theories as to why?

Desson Howe: Well, we used to have the Key and the Biograph, remember. The Charles has been around a long time and built up its supporter base. We have Visions and the Cinema Arts in Fairfax. Certainly we could do better here.

Chicago: About laughing at inappropriate moments, what about when the movie is trying to be dramatic, but is just silly, is it okay to be the only one laughing in the theater? This happened to me during Pearl Harbor just about every time Alec Baldwin spoke, why was I the only person laughing?

Desson Howe: Maybe because you were the only one in the theater? Attendance is really dropping!

Give Desson a Break!: No, I'm not his mother...

But I want to go on record that I appreciate Desson's high standards, that he saves me from a lot of movies I know I won't like, because over time I've learned that his taste and mine are pretty close. When he's written he likes something but has some reservations, I find that my reaction is similar. When I've gone to a movie he hasn't likes, say because my husband or friend wants to see it, or I like the subject matter and want to see it even if it's not that good (e.g., Red Violin), I always find his take similar to my own.

And I find other Post reviewers who may be equally picky, but have precisely the opposite view from my own - they hate what I love and vice versa - a great deal of the time. So again, I know from that review whether I'll find it worth it to spend the money.

The reviewer who loves everything is of no use to me.

Keep up the good work Desson!

Desson Howe: I want everyone to know, I did not set this person up. BUT THANKS FOR THE VOTE OF CONFIDENCE!!!

Reston, 20190: As to the value of a critic who values every movie. Sony found one so valuable they had to create him.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Arlington, Va: Just a question about Center of the World by Wayne Wang. It's supposedly about Silicon Valley but isn't set there. Is that an oxymoron like military intelligence? Seemed like just another sex flick with ugly people.

Desson Howe: It wasn't terrible. Even had some decent moments. But I wasn't thrilled with it. It took place in Las Vegas, as I recall, where the central character took a hired woman to be his date.

Re: Jolie: I'm sorry, but she just gives me the hives. All she is is Juliette Lewis with a more curvy body.

Desson Howe: That probably sounds good to a lot of people.

Crawford, Kansas: Who's the most likely from the current crop of actresses to join Demi Moore and Debra Winger on the sidelines? You know, top-billed in one-too-many box office disasters, and Hollywood FINALLY getting the message well after the viewing public that it ain't working for her anymore.

Desson Howe: I was thinking Sandra Bullock for a while. But she keeps making hits.

G'burg:
Do you miss Bill Forsythe movies, as I do? Do you know what has happened to him? Can you fix me up with Javier Bardem?

Thanks in advance.

Desson Howe: Yes I miss Bill's movies. Charming films he makes. Javier hasn't been in touch lately. Ever since he got famous. So I can't help you.

Washington, D.C.: I too pass on movies at Union Station, even though it's only a mile from my house. I saw Moulin Rouge on Saturday night at Shirlington instead, and I'm glad I did.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Reston: It seems that you are particularly hard in reviewing comedies. What are your standards for lighter fare, and how do they differ from evaluating those zany (i'm kidding!) art house flicks?

Desson Howe: Comedy is a great craft. I have a great appreciation for comedy in many forms. I like high comedy (Woody Allen, Mark Twain) and I like the 3 Stooges. I enjoyed Waynes World and the Dumb and Dumber movie, even. I like Jim Carrey. A comedy has to be bad for me to pan it.

Washington, D.C.: Does David Lynch's new film have an American distributor yet?

Desson Howe: You mean Mulholland Drive. Haven't heard about distrib yet. I'll keep you posted. I'm sure it'll be in American theaters soon, come fall. I'll keep you posted.

Arlington, Va.: Hi Desson,

I saw "Bridget Jones" over the weekend and found it much better than I expected. Colin Firth is such a wonderful actor- what else can I see him in, besides "Sense and sensibility, and Elizabeth?

Thank you.

Desson Howe: Try these films (most now in video): Apartment Zero, A Month in the Country, The English Patient, Valmont, Fever Pitch and the upcoming release, The Importance of Being Earnest.

Nani,Texas: I worked as an usher at the Majestic Theatre in San Antonio in the late 50s. Gosh that was and still is a beautiful theater! We wore uniforms, carried small flashlights and escorted patrons to their seats. We monitored the audience so if someone made a disturbance (this happened only on rare occasions), we'd flash our light in their direction to get their attention, put a finger to our lips in a "shush" gesture and that always worked.

I always watch for and enjoy EraserheadGuy's posts. I've never seen the film but plan to. Do you have your review on-line? I'm going to see if even if you did slam it.

Desson Howe: Interesting story. Why not just see Eraserhead ?

Disgruntled in N.Va.: Mr. Howe,

I feel I must point out another gross example of moviegoing misbehavior. I think I might have experienced the same 3 unruly teens as the earlier commenter, only they were in an Arlington theater. One of the teens cell phones rang three separate times during the movie, and each time this teen engaged in a full-volume conversation as if he were in his own living room. I think people whose phones and pagers go off in a theatre should be ejected. The only problem is that with all these megaplexes, there are never any ushers or managers to be found! Theatre owners need to start paying more attention to customer concerns.

Desson Howe: I agree 100 per cent.

Reston: When I saw "Crouching Tiger", there was some jerk who laughed loudly during all the action scenes. It really spoiled the movie. I hardly ever see movies in the theater anymore, because I am so sick of the behavior. My question is, is it worth seeing Shrek in the theater, and combating all those noisy kids (and adults), or would I enjoy it as much on video?

Desson Howe: See Shrek on the screen if you can. Go to a late show, when those kids are in bed. Or see it on DVD.

D.C. Hed-head: I think this summer's sleeper hit could be "Hedwig and the Angry Inch". Saw an advance screening last Tuesday, and it blew me away! I really loved "Dancer in the Dark" too. Where do you think movie musicals are heading?

Desson Howe: I don't know but I like alternative-idea musicals, and I'm glad to see them back. Hedwig is opening soon, and I'm excited about seeing that. Glad you enjoyed it.

Ballston Boy: I am curious about the mechanics of your job. How long before a typical movie's general release do critics get to view it? Where do the screenings take place? Who else is in the audience? Do you ever try to see a movie more than once to review it (probably useful for "Memento" but not for, say, "The Animal")? Is it a fairly uniform experience, or do the studios try to jazz it up for you with gifts, free food, etc.? Are there general ethical rules regarding this?

Desson Howe: I see a movie a week or 2 before release. The studios send all kinds of promotional junk to try and get critics into the idea of liking it. And they offer "junkets" in which you see the movie and then the star is waiting in a hotel room to be interviewed . I see some films in theaters during the day with other critics, or at night with special preview audiences.

Hohenems, Austria: Hello Desson!

Last week somebody was complaining about horrible adaptations of historical events into Hollywood Films (like Pearl Harbour). As we all know the studios are delivering us with tons of terrible movies of all genres. That΄s nothing new. But I have to point out that "Based-on-a-real-story-films" usually reach a surprisingly high standard. Of course there will be always exceptions ("The Patriot") but don΄t forget:

All The Presidents Men, Gandhi, Schindler's List, Michael Collins, Apollo 13, The Insider, Quiz Show, Nixon, Thirteen Days, F.I.S.T., The Great Escape,...

Thanks

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Denver, Colo.: Saw "With a Friend Like Harry" last week. Any idea why Harry felt the urge to do what he did? Had he been obsessed with Michel for a long time? Could he actually have really been in love with his writing?

Desson Howe: The movie's full of mysteries and I don't know if you're supposed to have a clear, clear answer.

Alexandria, Va.: Desson....

Sorry, but Clerks wasn't near as funny as Chasing Amy.

Desson Howe: OK. For you, maybe. I thought Clerks was hysterical at times. I don't remember guffawing at Chasing Amy.

Hastings: I just saw American Beauty. I must ask: why did that film win best picture? From my perspective, it was misogynist in the utmost. Furthermore, the very young actresses were exploited. Sure we saw Spacey's tush, briefly and perhaps for too long, but he's well into adulthood. Both Birch and Suvari are young actresses who apparently succumbed to the pressures to do a nude scene. Why Birch had to stand at the window and expose her breasts, I didn't understand (except that earlier some silly point was asserted that she was saving for breast augmentation and the nude shot exposed that she did not need it). Furthermore, Birch was barely 17 at the time and had to get the permission of her parents to do the nude scene. Isn't that child pornography? Then poor Suvari, who was 19 or so, too had her breasts exposed for our viewing pleasure (I guess). You didn't see Annette Bening exposing anything but legs in this film. Furthermore, some aspects of the film made no sense. Spacey's character is going to have sex with a young girl on his living room couch with daughter upstairs and wife on the way home? I think not. The videographer neighbor: we are supposed to see him as the moral conscience of the film? Give me a break! Okay, end rant now. I did like The Luzhin Defence.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Wiredog: As far as you slamming all non-art movies, I'm sure all who hang out here remember the time you declared "Battlefield: Earth" movie of the year.

Desson Howe: An unforgettable piece of work, that.

London England : Hi Desson

I don't know if Legally Blonde will be a 'sleeper' but it looks to be a very funny alternative to the special-effects heavy, sequel-laden, testosterone-pumping summer fare (phew!). And of course it stars easily the best comedic actor of her generation Reese Witherspoon. No doubt you really rated Election? Incidentally Tomb Raider was shot not in Hollywood but 600 miles away at Pinewood just outside London... on the 007 stage.

Desson Howe: The trailer looks good. I have high hopes for it.

Wes Anderson question: Any word on his new project "Royel Tenanbaums"?

Ok do you prefer Rushmore or Bottle Rocket? And why?

Desson Howe: Running out of time. I love all his films.

WDC 20036: Finally got to see Memento this weekend..... WOW. Where have I seen Guy Pearce before? He seemed awfully familiar. Also, is there any site out there where one can discuss this movie - because I thought the "ending" (beginning, really) was open to interpretation.

Desson Howe: He was in L.A. Confidential.

Washington, D.C.: Isn't Lara Croft supposed to be an empowering figure for females, not someone for old men to drool over? Do you think the film will appeal more to women or men?

Desson Howe: Sounds like she's got both bases covered.

D.C.: Joaquin Phoenix is a phenomenal actor. If you haven't seen "Return To Paradise", rent it, because his performance is unbelievable.

Desson Howe: Thanks.

Silver Spring, Md.: Thanks for the chat today. What, in general, is the difference between an executive producer and a producer. And speaking of producers, have you heard about any of Gale Anne Hurd's most recent efforts. I generally like the projects she's associated with.

Desson Howe: Ask me next week?

Desson Howe: Sorry, bell rings. Time out. Already 25 minutes overdue. I've collected the unanswered q's from today and will try and get them answered next week, or 2 weeks from today. There's a chance I may not be here next Monday, not sure just yet, but just to warn you. So, see you either next Monday or after that.

washingtonpost.com:

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