Preview: The Elephant King (2008)

• Poster: C+

Review:

Putting the "Thai" women front-and-center and pushing Ellen Burstyn to a slightly smaller background and putting the two male leads, the ones whose stories the film appears to be about, at a mid-foreground makes the poster seem like it's trying to sell something it isn't. The blue water-ripple effect at the top and bottom is a bit silly.

• Trailer: B-

Review:

Splashing actors names on the screen like they are knowing quantities, the only name of any import is Ellen Burstyn and with the few scenes of hers, it's clear she's not at the top of her game, which also means the director isn't as competent as the film festival laurels would suggest. Though, there are enough intriguing "live life to the fullest" elements that it could be at least watchable.

Oscar Prospects:

The Independent Spirit Awards may be more the film's style, but even then, it will only be Ellen Burstyn who earns any attention.

Release Date:

• October 17, 2008

Full Review Synopsis:

I have not seen this film.

-Wesley Lovell (September 28, 2008) Original