Walking and Talking (1996)

Writer/director Nicole Holofcener's first film is an awkward-yet- 
engaging romantic comedy about two childhood friends (Catherine 
Keener and Anne Heche) who find their adult relationship strained 
by one's impending marriage.  Though the comic timing isn't the 
sharpest, the psychology of the script rings true.  We get good 
glimpses-- if not downright portraits-- of addiction, absorption, 
and obsession.  The cast is comprised of younger, less-familiar 
faces and, oh, what a treat it is to see a summer movie without 
any "name" actors.  (They've all been around, though.  Ms. Heche 
was Alec Baldwin's victim in THE JUROR, Catherine Keener appeared 
in LIVING TO OBLIVION, and so on.)  Unfortunately, the acting is at 
times amateurish, which may have as much to do with the experience 
of the filmmaker as the age of the cast.  (Rated "R"/90 min.)

Grade: C+

Copyright 1996 by Michael J. Legeros

Originally posted to triangle.movies in MOVIE HELL: August 18, 1996