Media Maven: “Waitress” Movie Review
Waitress
Kerri Russell, Adrienne Shelly, Cheryl Hines, Nathan Fillion, Jeremy Sisto, Andy Griffith
Waitress is like a little snippet of a slice of pie; so pleasing you may want to go back for seconds. Kerri Russell plays Jenna who is this no nonsense waitress who works at and concocts mouth watering, award winning pies for Joes Pie Shop and Diner.
Jenna is the leading lady whose story is told by her own voice overs as she describes making delectable delicacies that so aptly reflect life in this small folksy, southern town. For her personally, there is the I hate my husband, Earl Pie. (Of course its flambé). And then there is the I cant believe I am having an affair pie; which her friend and fellow waitress tells her As delicious tasting as that pie may be, they cant print it on the menu with a name like that.
The owner of Joes Pie Shop is played by an old, cantankerous Andy Griffith. He befriends Jenna. She is stuck with Earl, her good old boy husband in a controlling, abusive relationship. She even describes her life as a train wreck still heading down the wrong track. To some, that would be enough information to skip this movie all together thinking it was a downer.
It is nothing but a triumphant story. What makes this film work is the strong character development, the camaraderie of women relationships and the understanding of human relationships in all of life. Those within the confines of conformity and those within the confines of the human heart. Each supporting character bringing to life Adrienne Shellys wry, bittersweet script makes for pleasurable entertainment. From Jennas cohorts (waitresses played by Cheryl Hines and Adrienne Shelly) to the men in her life – no good Earl and the new doctor in town (played convincingly by Jeremy Sisto and Nathan Fallion); all add to the deliciousness of this film.
With tenacity and pluck Jenna manages to find the love of her life to share her talent for pie baking. She manages to live her life fully – on her own terms.
Who wouldnt like a piece of that pie?
Rating: Four Chic Stars
Jans Movie Rating System:
5 – Top notch entertainment
4 – Compelling, Heartwarming, Thrilling, Comical
3 – The a) story b) actors c) special effects saved/made this movie.
2 – If you are bored watch it, or wait for DVD
1 – Dont bother. Too morose, too violent, too blasé, an enigma.
