Review: LITTLE VOICE
Starring: Michael Caine, Brenda Blethyn, Jim Broadbent, Ewan McGregor
With Jane Horrocks as Little Voice
Directed by: Mark Herman
Review by: Joy Wyse, the SILVER Screen Critic
Jane Horrocks, who stars as L.V. or `Little Voice', is unknown to most filmgoers but this movie wouldn't have been the same without her. It was written specifically for her and her ability to duplicate the incredible voices of various singing legends.
L.V. lives with her mother, Mari Hoff, played by Brenda Blethyn, in rooms over their former record store. Music had been her father's love and when he died, the store, his records and memories were all that remained. The mother longs for romance and excitement. She's not ready to be a weeping widow. She is attracted to a man, Ray Say, who is a talent agent of sorts, portrayed by Michael Caine. He puts up a flashy front while hoping to find that one performer who will establish him and make him rich.
A telephone installer named George [Philip Jackson] and his assistant, Billy [Ewan McGregor] meet the mother and daughter while connecting a new phone line. The lecherous and married George is hoping for a quick interlude with Mari but Billy is attracted to the taciturn L.V. He is the silent type who raises homing pigeons on the rooftop and who lacks the wherewithal to pursue L.V.
One night when Ray overhears L.V., alone in her room, singing in a loud voice reminiscent of Judy Garland, he knows that he's finally found his star, his meal ticket.
It isn't easy convincing L.V. to agree to sing in front of a live audience. The circumstances of the appearance and what follow are what make this a truly memorable film. There are numerous classic songs that the older generation will appreciate. They include: The Man That Got Away, Hey, Big Spender, Lover Boy, Get Happy, and many others.
The three leads all give Oscar winning performances. Hopefully, they'll be nominated. Brenda Blethyn is just tawdry enough as a love-hungry but vulnerable older woman. Michael Caine totally conveys the depths of this likeable/unlikable usurious man. Jane Horrocks is in a class by herself.
Mr. Boo [Jim Broadbent], the club owner where L.V. performs is another little person clinging to his pseudo-importance. Annette Badland as Sadie, the Hoff's neighbor across the street, delivers a small but classic role.
I give this a solid A.
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