Deconstructing Harry
Posted by criticplanet on August 23, 2008
Film Rating: *****
(Directed by Woody Allen; Written by Woody Allen; Starring Woody Allen, Richard Benjamin, Kirstie Alley, Billy Crystal, Judy Davis, Bob Balaban, Elisabeth Shue, Demi Moore, Robin Williams, Julie Kavner, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tobey Maguire, Stanley Tucci; 1997; 96 minutes; Rated R for strong language and some sexuality.)
“Between air conditioning and the Pope, I’ll take air conditioning.”
Harry Block (Woody Allen) has many other humorous and insightful lines in “Deconstructing Harry”, which is probably my favorite Woody Allen film. As with many of Woody Allen’s films, “Deconstructing Harry” shows the humor in the pain and self loathing of the central character. Just as his name suggests, Harry Block is suffering from writers block for the first time in his life. His previous publications have angered his family and friends because he uses them in his books, and barely tries to disguise it.
The film switches back and forth from Harry’s real life, to the parallel universe that is contained in his books and short stories. While Harry is on his way to accept an award from a college that had previously thrown him out, the film takes you through a journey of self realization as Harry reflects back on his life and how it has affected him and those around him. The story is loosely based on the film “Wild Strawberries” by Ingmar Bergman.
“Deconstructing Harry” is one of my all time favorite comedies. I’m a huge fan of Woody Allen’s work, but you don’t have to be a Woody Allen fan to enjoy this film. Even my wife (who typically isn’t a Woody Allen fan) enjoys the film. You get the same great comedy and huge cast of amazing actors as you do with many other Woody Allen films. Woody Allen is perfect as Harry Block. The rest of the cast includes acting gems such as Kirstie Alley, Bob Balaban, Billy Crystal, Judy Davis, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tobey Maguire, Demi Moore, and Robin Williams.
If you are a fan of Woody Allen’s work, buy this film immediately. If you are not a fan of Woody Allen’s work, you should rent this film and give it a chance. I think you’ll be glad you did.
