On R List of Movie Reviews
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The Razor's Edge (1984)
Rate:
2
Viewed:
4/21
4/21:
Hey, Bill Murray...come closer to me for some wisdom talk, so I can punch your face.
After seeing the ineffectual remake of The Razor's Edge, I'm starting to realize that Bill Murray is a really bad actor. He
doesn't have the knack for dramas or know how to behave appropriately in period pictures. When somebody tells him something that's
profoundly important, he can only come up with a blank stare (see the movie poster to know exactly what I mean).
Well, the original version wasn't good, and this remake is even worse despite the Farewell to Arms intro. Only the
terrific cinematography, which actually looks better than the original film, saves me dying from boredom. Because of it, I
thought of giving the remake a '3' but changed my mind.
The performances are equally flat and monotonous throughout. Worse is the zero character development from the get-go. I have
no idea who everybody, especially Gray Maturin, is; hence, the 1946 picture can only serve as a helpful reference. Nothing
happens while time simply passes. There's supposed to be enlightenment going on, but I never witness it.
Bill Murray and Tyrone Power are both miscast in the leading role. As Sophie, Theresa Russell is passable given the low difficulty
of such a role. Catherine Hicks makes for an unmemorable Isabel compared to Gene Tierney. Denholm Elliott can't hold a
candle to Clifton Webb. The fictional character by the name of W. Somerset Maugham is noticeably absent. At least, the
filmmakers have managed to correct the guru's ethnicity while shooting the particular scene in India instead of Denver, Colorado.
All in all, Ghostbusters, not The Razor's Edge, made Bill Murray famous because
it was the right vehicle to showcase his comedy talent, deadpan face and all.