Introduction

Well ladies and gents this epinionater has been absent for a while. Admittedly, part of my absence was over the joy and awe of becoming a father. Since then, I just haven’t had as much time to review art placed to a canvass of celluloid otherwise known as a film or movie. I digress, you didn’t need a lengthy definition of the word movie or an explanation as to my absence. There was a moment recently where my wife and I were able to steal, along with baby, and take in ‘Radio’ on DVD. This is a review of the movie and not the DVD.

To be honest, my wife wanted to see this movie more than I did. Ever since we saw the feel good trailers at the movie theater she had expressed an interest in this movie. Me, well I didn’t want to see a movie that would liken itself to ‘Seabiscuit’. My problem with so many feel-good movies is that they preach to you or tell you how you are supposed to feel. ‘Radio’ delivers a feel-good movie without talking down or telling one how to feel. Instead if culminates powerful performances, music, and settings to send one back to the 70’s splice of life drama ‘Radio’.

What Works

Acting

Cuba Gooding Jr. provides us all with an honest, not over the top, portrayal of a very likeable mentally challenged James Robert Kennedy who is affectionately nicknamed Radio. One anticipates Cuba mugging for the camera or over acting. Instead we get an understated, respectable performance by Gooding. His facial expressions never become more than what is necessary. Gooding never insults the man he is portraying with a vacant stare or fake drool. Instead what we receive is a compelling performance about the true measure of a man; one’s heart. While this is probably the least amount of dialogue that Gooding has delivered on film it was far more Oscar worthy than his golden statue for Jerry Macguire.

Ed Harris also delivers a brilliant performance as Coach Jones. All one needs to do is to look into Harris’ eyes to see the depth of emotion and devotion for Radio that he conveys on the screen. His dialogue is delivered with a quiet sincerity. Throughout the film each moment is played for truth. None of his reactions seem over the top or rehearsed. This was a fresh breath of air in comparison with performances like that of Jeff Bridges in ‘Seabiscuit’ who was over the top and preachy.

The rest of the cast, right down to the smallest speaking part, act as a complete ensemble to deliver an authentic feel to the movie and the suspension of disbelief is accomplished.

Music

Music has the ability to draw one in and mesmerize. It can also magnify or bring to the surface emotions that we are having or weren’t aware were buried beneath the surface. The editing team involved in the film’s soundtrack also helps to set the mood and forward the plot.

Transition and Flow

From the first frame to the last, the film is very linear. We are given wipes, pans, and fades to let us now a scene is over. As time passes there is notable text to let us know what has elapsed. The viewer is never left pondering, wait what just happened. Instead we are taken on a calculating journey.

Theme

This film’s message is a worthy one. It addresses many sociological issues. First, that one man can make a difference in the lives of those around him. As Coach Jones’ touches Radio’s life, Radio changes the community. Instead of a community hell bent on racism the town is able to get wrapped up in the excitement of helping Radio become a part of the community instead of remaining in his silent self-exile. In essence this film speaks volumes about acceptance of others and that we all play a part in the world around us.

Suspension of Disbelief

The film locales, the music, and the costumes all lend to the feeling that one has been transported back into the 1970’s. Our director Michael Tollin has spared no expense with detail as having the soda fountains, cars, shoes, shirts and everything in-between to scream with period authenticity.

What Doesn’t Work

Although not the opinion of this Epinionater, this film may not have enough action for some movie goers. It does have the drama of football and basketball games but even they are really subtext for the film. So if you want some bang for your buck you might want to go and see something along the lines of Torque.

Conclusion

‘Radio’ is a deep compelling movie which explores the potential of the human soul to do great good. It touches the heart strings and made me stop and ponder about my place in this world. If anything, it has encouraged me to be less judgmental or critical of those that I encounter in my life. (A hard thing for a Virgo to do!) If you have reservations about viewing this cinematic heart healer, cast them aside and see this movie. Soon, you too will be caught up in wanting to make this world a better place. Oh and remember it is ok to have the best of ‘both’ worlds. See the movie to find out what I mean.


Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children up to Age 4