The New Age Review
A caustic, obtuse time capsule of pre-millennial angst, the barely-seen The New Age may not have cemented popular screenwriter Michael Tolkin's reputation as a full-fledged auteur. Still, the film remains an interesting if not completely successful attempt to capture -- and satirize -- the loneliness of the haute bourgeoisie. Judy_Davis and Peter_Weller are spot-on in their portrayals of glossy, empty L.A. post-boomers who look to sex, salesmanship, and bunk spirituality for a vague semblance of soul. It's the kind of role Davis has relished in numerous movies, and she turns in an appropriately oblivious variation on her usual modern neurotic; by comparison, Weller seems a bit muted, but his cipher-like countenance fits well with the film, particularly in its latter act. Where another director might have played the material for farce (à la the detestable Scenes From a Mall), Tolkien smartly plays the scenes with a cautious ennui; though he doesn't sympathize with his arrogant anti-heroes, he also doesn't make them larger-than-life exaggerations. In fact, The New Age's greatest failing may be that the objects of its scorn might not even realize they're being mocked. Michael Hastings, Rovi
Great Film Moments:
- In Theaters
- This Week
- Coming Soon
- New on DVD
Browse More Movies:
