Brooks And Stone: Highly A-Muse-Ing

Mon., Sept. 6, 1999

Theresa Carpine, Ferris

“The Muse” (Rated PG-13)

Albert Brooks’ new comedy about a screenplay writer who loses his edge is a great satire about Hollywood. The clever humor and outstanding performances by the female leads make the film a success.

When the writer, Stephen Phillips, can’t get his script sold, a colleague (Jeff Bridges) introduces him to the Muse, Sarah (Sharon Stone). Her job? To inspire. When she becomes Steven’s Muse, she demands his full attention and money, but Stone does it so sweetly and casually that you love her anyway. Soon, Sarah is not only inspiring Steven but his wife Laura (Andie MacDowell) and others from Hollywood in cameo roles.

“The Muse” has a mystical element to it. Is Sarah a descendent of the actual Nine Muses of mythology that we read about in English, or is she just a ditzy blonde who can get what she wants from everyone? The film offers some explanations, but leaving it vague is part of the charm.

The subtle comedy works great; Brooks telling a joke that almost has a sitcom feel to it doesn’t. The running gags run on too long. The witty dialogue between characters is much better.

Stone and MacDowell are wonderful and work great together. They contribute so much to their roles and make “The Muse” delightful.

Grade: A-

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