SCENT OF A WOMAN
A film review by James Berardinelli
Copyright 1993 James Berardinelli
Running Length: 2:36 Rated: R (Language, mature themes)
Starring: Al Pacino, Chris O'Donnell Director: Martin Brest Producer: Martin Brest Screenplay: Bo Goldman Music: Thomas Newman Released by Universal Pictures
SCENT OF A WOMAN is about Charles Simms (Chris O'Donnell), a Boston prep school senior, and the Thanksgiving weekend he spends working as the companion of Lt. Colonel Frank Slade (Al Pacino), an embittered, lonely, blind veteran. The job, which doesn't seem all that enjoyable to start with, degenerates further when Slade decides to make an unexpected visit to New York City.
There are certain actors that, when they appear in a film, are almost invariably indicators that the production is one of quality. They are an elite few, with names like Nicholson, Hoffman, Hackman, and Pacino. Considering some of the roles that Al Pacino has played in the past (THE GODFATHER trilogy, for example), it would be hyperbole to say that he gives the "performance of a lifetime" in SCENT OF A WOMAN. However, there's no doubting that for most actors, this would be a career-capper. And though Pacino has given performances of this strength before, that in no way diminishes the effort he invests in SCENT OF A WOMAN.
Chris O'Donnell, a fresh-but-not-unknown face, also does a solid job in the more experienced man's shadow. His role is nicely-understated as well as human, and he manages to fashion a rapport with the audience. This is necessary for the film to succeed, since it's through his eyes that the story unfolds.
In essence, SCENT OF A WOMAN is another in a never-ending series of bonding pictures where each person has something unique to offer to the other. However, this movie is special; it goes deeper than the average film of its ilk, plumbing the depths of two superbly-rendered characters. There are numerous dynamic scenes, along with a surprising amount of comedy. Director/ Producer Martin Brest knows how to blend humor with drama. His mix is nearly flawless, and he manages to do almost the entire film without resorting to cheap, manipulative tricks. Laughter, tears, and cheers are genuine - straight from the heart - not the result of the movie-makers maneuvering us into giving pre-programmed responses. Considering how sound the bulk of this film is, the final moments are weak, but skillfully handled nevertheless. Brest is also a master at encouraging viewers to suspend disbelief. There's a scene in SCENT OF A WOMAN with Pacino and O'Donnell in a Ferrari that, while implausible, is natural in the context of the film.
The movie is as long as its storyline demands. It doesn't seem like two and one-half hours, and less time with these characters would have cheated the audience. Aided by an emotive score from Thomas Newman, SCENT OF A WOMAN is a masterful production and a superb way to start 1993.
Rating: 9.6 (A+, ****)
- James (blake7@cc.bellcore.com) .
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