Edward Burns is going to have to act more in movies that aren't
his own. At least then he can get away from the persistent Woody
Allen comparisons he receives whenever he writes and directs a film.
As strictly an actor, Burns has been in "Saving Private Ryan" and "15 Minutes." He has written, produced, directed and starred in "The Brothers McMullen," "She's the One" and "No Looking Back."
His latest work, "Sidewalks of New York," falls under the latter category. It also happens to be his best film, though the Allen comparisons have come in full force.
"Sidewalks of New York" tries to peel back the surface and examine modern relationships underneath a microscope. Admittedly, not everything is original and by no means is this the definitive exploration of the mystery of love. But a first-rate cast, witty dialogue and plenty of laughs help Burns turn it into a real winner.
Tommy (Burns) is a successful television producer who has just been dumped and kicked out by his girlfriend. On the advice of his lothario friend Carpo (Dennis Farina), he takes matters into his own hands and picks up Maria (Rosario Dawson) in a video store.
Maria, a schoolteacher, is divorced from Ben (David Krumholtz), a doorman and wannabe rock star. Initially Ben still pines for Maria, whom he cheated on and left. But then he meets college student and waitress Ashley (Brittany Murphy), and he's immediately smitten.
Ashley is having an affair with married dentist Griffin (Stanley Tucci). Griffin is married to real estate agent Annie (Heather Graham), who also happens to be showing Tommy some places since he needs to find his own apartment.
Burns does an outstanding job of balancing the characters and the storyline. Each character is given ample screen time and is carefully developed. Burns has a knack for crafting characters that feel like real people and he has never been better here.
The acting and dialogue are the two biggest assets in "Sidewalks of New York." Tucci and Farina stick out in a fine cast. They get the juiciest roles and lines and create men you really love to hate.
Burns addresses serious issues facing anyone involved in the dating game or a marriage, including infidelity, promiscuity and fear of commitment. Thankfully, he knows he doesn't have all the answers and doesn't pretend to. He avoids preaching and sentimentality.
In addition, the setting is a tremendous plus. Burns made the smart decision of leaving in shots of the Twin Towers, and New York City looks as beautiful, charming and inviting as ever.
By using a hand-held camera and a lot of close ups, plus the multiple couple angle, many feel Burns is nothing more than an Allen knock off. But Burns admits to being highly influenced by Allen, and imitation is the highest form of flattery. It's really a moot point.
"Sidewalks of New York" is as welcome as a warm autumn evening, and just as pleasant and refreshing.
"Sidewalks of New York" opens on Fri., Nov. 30 at Landmark's Oriental Theatre. Click here for showtimes.
