Review: The Great New Wonderful Cast: Maggie Gyllenhaal Thomas McCarthy Judy Greer Directed by: Danny Leiner 9/11 movies are coming out almost as much as romantic comedies or horror films these days. From Oliver Stone and World Trade Center to United 93, everyone has their take on what happened during the events. But no one has made a film about the after-effects of the event. The shock, trauma, and paranoia that hit many people. That is until The Great New Wonderful came out. The film is part Woody Allen and part Deer Hunter with a healthy mix of what every good movie should have. Tragedy, humor, realism, authenticity, love, and top notch acting from everyone involved. The Woody Allen part involves an interesting look at a group of humorous and quirky people in New York one year after 9/11, and how they are adjusting or in some cases not adjusting. It goes from tragedy to humor in the blink of an eye. The Deer Hunter part is how it examines the after-effects of a horrific incident and the lingering effects it left behind. The film is not about the firefighters, policemen, or the heroes of 9/11. The film is about regular people. The people like you and me. Walking the streets, going to their job, and trying to live their life. 9/11 looms over them like an elephant in the room, but is never spoken about at length. People's anger, anxiety, confusion, and worries are tackled in a human and sometimes funny way. Maggie Gyllenhaal continues her year of solid work as she plays Emme, an over-competitive pastry chef who is insanely jealous of another far more popular pastry chef played by Edie Falco. Emme is so far into her job, she has no clue about anything going on in the outside world. She puts all of her energy, focus, and life into her job. She is not overly pleasant to deal with and her employees are scared of her. Tony Shalhoub of Monk fame, plays an extremely weird and quirky therapist who is counseling those who have lost office workers on 9/11. He gives therapy to a very angry man named Sandie (Jim Gaffigan), who is any minute away from snapping. But according to him, he is fine. Judy Greer and Thomas McCarthy are a married couple dealing with an unapproachable, angry, and violent young child. They are trying to get through to him but failing miserably. We also get two very entertaining security guards played by Naseeruddin Shah and Sharat Saxena. They discuss everything from The Matrix films to ice cream to the hot girl at the supermarket. Their conversations are without a doubt the best part of the film. Director Danny Leiner (Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle) has a real feel for films that work while also being very funny. He finds the humor in everyday life and situations. The Great New Wonderful is at times hard to watch, due to its painfully accurate portrayal of life after tragedy. So many of the scenes and situations ring true. Danny Leiner is smart to include some humor along the way to lighten the load and not make the film too heavy. The film at times even feels like a documentary with its quick movements from story to story. No story stays too long, and all the actors get plenty of time to show off their considerable acting talents. The Great New Wonderful is the best film about 9/11 that has been released. No extreme messages, or over the top symbolism. Just an honest and accurate portrayal of the aftermath of an event a lot of people have still not gotten over and maybe never will. Review by Tony Farinella

 

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