“Fame,” a variety show loosely held together with a thin plot, relies solely on the musical elements to keep the audience engaged. One number, the lunchroom scene, exudes a toe-tapping energy and Naturi Naughton’s powerful interpretation of “Out There on My Own” evokes an emotional response. Most routines, however, though visually stimulating, are not really memorable. And the title song is not used until the closing credits. What’s that all about?
“Fame” is a PG version of the 1980 original, using a similar general format: students at a performing arts high school. But there are too many characters for any meaningful development, which means writer Allison Burnett takes the easy way out, relying on teenage stereotypes: the shy girl trying to fit in, the angry rebel who needs to get in touch with his sensitive side, the classical pianist finding her dreams in hip-hop, and the dancer who finds her dreams fulfilled. The standout is Naturi Naughton, who has skill both as an actor and a singer. The others seem to be cast for their ability to sing or dance, not act. And all are certainly older than high school students. The all-star adult cast, Kelsey Grammer (musical coach), Bebe Neuwirth (dancing), Mega Mullaly (singing) and Charles S. Dutton (acting) are wasted. 9/27/09
1 comment:
The new version of "Fame" does not stand up to the 1980 version, but remember, these are much different shows and its hard to compare. But, as a showcase for some bright young stars of the future, it shines. If you would like to see the talented people who will populate Broadway, Hollywood stages and the TV shows over the next decade or two then this film is a must see.
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