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 A stand-out performance by Amy
Adams, and spectacular costuming, saves Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day. Spooling out like a Broadway play makes the
film seem a little flat, but rest assured the romantic situation comedy has
substance. If you’re a legitimate
theatergoer, or you enjoy a feisty romance, this film will fill the bill.
A
down and out middle-aged governess, Guinevere Pettigrew (McDormand) has just
been let go from her third job obtained from a local placement agency. Rebuked by the agency’s owner for another chance
at employment, she swipes a contact card off her desk before leaving.
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Rated: PG-13
Starring: Frances McDormand, Amy Adams, Shirley Henderson, Lee Pace, Mark Strong
Directed by: Bharat Nalluri
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Miss Pettigrew shows up at the client’s doorstep just as
occupant Amercian actress Delysia Lafosse finds herself in a pickle over a
suitor. Jumping into the fray, Pettigrew
solves the problem and gets hired by Delysia as her social secretary. But, Delysia’s social life is a mess since
she has been courting three different men.
When she holds a party and all three attend, Pettigew finds she has her
work cut out for her.
Amy Adams is
her wistful self in Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day. Much like the character from Enchanted, Adams
seems to be having fun with her role.
Watching her reminded me of the comical performance by Uma Thurman as
the debutante Ulla in the Producers.
Adam’s lines are great and her performance over-the-top as she portrays
the delightful Delysia.
In support,
Pace, Payne and Strong are great as the three pursuers of Delysia. The three are sometimes hilarious as they vie
for her affections. Director Nallui keeps
the trio hopping in and out of the film with pinpoint timing as they work their
romantic magic until they all square off at the final party.
The costumes by
Michael O’Connor depicting the 30s era in London are very well done, and
befitting the film. I especially liked
the lingerie show with each of the models wearing their fashionable corsets and
bloomers. The look on Miss Pettigrew's face when one of the girls comes out in
modern underwear is priceless.
FINAL ANALYSIS: Miss
Pettigrew Lives for a Day is perfect for dinner and a movie, especially if
you are into romantic situation comedies.
This Reviewer's Rating:   3 / 5
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