Search - Purple Violets on DVD

A Solid Film

Tebes | Niagara Region, ON | 10/10/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Imagine a Woody Allen film without Jazz music, without references to Dostoevsky, Nietzsche and the Marx Brothers, without existential questioning but with similar themes - broken marriages, second chances - and some similar characters (there is usually a hysterical woman in a Woody Allen film and Purple Violets has one as well).

Edward Burns, I feel, is the next director to keep an eye on. The film's plot is relatively straight-forward: two guys (Burns, Wilson), two girls (Messing, Blair), they used to know each other, are slowly coming back into each other's lives. The two guys have been friends for a long time, the two girls have been friends for a long time. Reconciliation, being true to yourself... other themes which emerge making the film lovely, solid and very approachable.

I would guest 65% of the film is devoted to Blair and Wilson's characters whereas Messing and Burns follow-through with some comedic moments. He is a recovering alcoholic, trying to put the past right and she won't forgive him for the way he was. So the sexual tension proves to bring a good balance to the depth and romance between Blair and Wilson.

If you enjoy Woody Allen or previous films by Burns (She's The One, The Brothers McMullen) you will enjoy this one. He has the pace and tone of Allen but he is becoming more of his own. I was impressed with the pace, the authenticity of emotions and the nuances. It doesn't offer typical Hollywood bullsh-t - it offers more and is probably more genuine and truer to life than the formulaic tripe slipping across our movie theatre screens.

Definitely worth a look."

Genuine

Bobby Pollock | Jacksonville, NC | 01/23/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Intelligent, inspirational, well thought movie about real emotions. If you've ever believed in love, and how time subdues emotions but never severing the suppressed feelings of a long lost love.

A fortuitious encounter at a restaurant sparks emotions, and rekindles the past. It's about second chances, and how people change; letting go of bitterness and believing in something or someone.

As in any relationship, knowing who you are and what's important; taking time heal and getting to know yourself. Believing in yourself and your abilities, taking chances; those who risk win."

Sometimes there is a second chance

tea lover | Wellfleet, MA USA | 04/30/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Written by, produced by, directed by, and starring Edward Burns, one has to believe that Burns' soul is in this film. But, for a man, this is all about Selma Blair.

This is a story of second chances, and how, through determination, perseverance, understanding, and love, we can sometimes make better choices than the first time round, and arrive at better outcomes. But it's never easy. Nothing that matters is easy.

The soundtrack is a series of mood pieces, and is very beautiful and soul stirring. The characters are irreverant, needful, full of potential, always earnest (the main ones are!), and in the end triumphant (again, the ones we care about are). All the aching sadness along the way leads to a glorious and inspiring end.

Selma Blair has a breakout role. Her acting is inspired, captivating, and stunningly good. She is a brilliant sunburst of energy. If there is any justice, this role will mark the point where she emerges as a brilliant and mature actress and embarks on a long and honored career."

Selma Makes it a Great Movie!

BillieJean | USA | 04/25/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We don't often get to see Selma Blair play good roles - she took front and center in this film and did a wonderful job! Really. I love her work, but not enough films with her playing good roles - she is usually here and there... not in Purple Violets! The movie overall has a great cast. It's a movie I'll watch over and over again. Also, check out the music in the film - I always wait until the end and jot them all down... and usually the soundtracks are missing the good songs - so it's off to iTunes or amazon.com to download. If you are a Selma Blair fan - or a fan of any of these actors/actresses - BUY the film! Give credit where credit is due! Hope to see Selma in more upcoming films!"