DVD Review - Edmond

Stuart Gordon directs this film, which is an American urban nightmare. The screenplay is written by David Mamet that he adapted from his play of the same name. And this film has Mamet written all over it.

William H. Macy plays Edmond Burke, an ordinary businessman who has unusual desires. Edmond is very taken with a card reading that he has on his way home from work. The card reader tells Edmond that he must change his life. When he gets home he tells his wife that he is leaving her forever. She in turn tells him that he got it wrong - she is leaving him. After he leaves his apartment he becomes involved with the seamier side of New York City - thieves, prostitutes, etc. He also has a brief encounter with a waitress (Julia Stiles) which becomes the pivotal turning point in his life.

All of the actors do a good job even though most of them aren't on screen for very long. The supporting cast includes Joe Mantegna, Rebecca Pidgeon and Mena Suvari. But the film belongs to Macy. He is in every scene and he is just outstanding. His Edmond is quite frightening and out of touch with reality.

The film itself is very short (82 minutes) which is perfect. It consists of several monologues and wouldn't work as well as if it was longer. The film sometimes gets a bit stagey and it is obvious that it was adapted from a play. And once in a while things get a bit heavy handed. The dialog is pure Mamet so those of you who enjoy his work will like this film.

Edmond is not by any means a perfect film. But it is always interesting to watch. And Macy's performance as man on the way down is worth the price of the rental fee.