Anywhere but Here
Director: | Wayne Wang |
Writer: | Alvin Sargent |
Fox 2000; PG-13; 113 minutes | |
Release: | 11/99 |
Cast: | Susan Sarandon, Natalie Portman |
Depending on what galaxy you're from, Natalie Portman is either the princess saving the world from Phantom Menace or a Harvard freshman who happens to be a talented actress. Yes, she's ditched the funky headgear and now occupies the emotional center of Wayne Wang's latest movie.
Portman plays Ann, no-nonsense daughter to selfishly immature and spunkily ambitious Adele August (Susan Sarandon). Adele's relocating them to Hollywood in a frantic attempt to make something of herself.
Anywhere but Here breaks no new ground, but it shows how satisfying a well-acted character drama can be. Portman holds her own with Sarandon, as both give impressive performances. Mid-life attempts at revival are nicely juxtaposed by the young woman's coming of age. Wang (The Joy Luck Club) directs with a soft, steady touch.