Simply Perfect

Memorable, crazy movie

This is a small, humorous movie in some ways, but it has a huge heart. What a nice experience.

I didn’t really have many expectations going into the movie (good or bad), but I actually really enjoyed it. I really liked the characters and the banter between them.

This is a good film, but slow. Peter Falk's makeup is excellent, but D.B. Sweeney's is not; at times when he is supposed to be younger, he looks older than in later scenes when he is supposed to be older but looks younger than he does earlier...huh?I did not expect Beth to die, and IMO the movie hung on too long after that. I think it was about 1/2 hour overbaked.The main elements of the movie hang together. The writer did a good job of paying attention to his own work (sounds easy, but just try watching "Pushing Tin"). The film did a good job of presenting the value of family. Such loyalty is always welcome.This is, as I said, a good film.

There was times during "Roommates" when I was reminded of director Yates' 1979 film, "Breaking Away". That, like this movie, was a comedy/drama. But the real difference between the two is how the earlier production struck a believable, painfully human balance, and "Roommates" just barely achieves status quo. It's also somewhat uneven. Early on, it sets out to be a light comedy, with a bit of drama to ground it. This basic tone never shifts, but with the entire third act being so miserable, it's prevented from being convincing. There's no point where it's especially unlikable, just frustrating.The acting has something to offer, even though I've seen nearly everyone give better performances. Julianne Moore, Ellen Burstyn, Peter Falk - three of my favorites - aren't really offered enough to show their respective talents. Falk, even though he's the star of "Roommates", seems like an afterthought, a minor character who steps in to offer periodical clever quips. And I didn't find the makeup work to be particularly convincing.An overall problem comes down to the script. Although the film seems long enough, even too long at times, it feels truncated in order to fit in all the chronology. There are breaks of years, seven or five, or however many, and people don't seem to change or age normally. It's like watching a stage play when you know there's been no passage of time, and can't be properly convinced otherwise. "Roommates" is a film that doesn't really know what it is or what it wants to be. The VHS cover shows a scene from the film involving a garden hose. In the photograph, it looks playful. It the actual movie, it is part of a serious argument. That just about sums up the dichotomy that is "Roommates".

I didn't think i could become a bigger fan of Peter Falk but this film has proved me wrong. I cant understand why this movie isn't more well known. Peter Falks acting is beyond brilliant in this movie making me laugh and cry uncontrollably. Peter Falks ability to take on different roles is shockingly amazing and until you hear his voice you would not know it was him. This film is definitely in my top 5 favourate films of all time. All of the acting is superb, the story line is detailed and gripping through out. This movie is one that will be remembered by anybody who watches it and one you will tell your friends about. Thank god for old classics such as this. In my opinion this is a must see movie.

If your looking for a comedy you will be disappointed, however if you want a well acted, poignant drama with some funny lines, than this is worth your time. Peter Falk and D. B. Sweeney, are brilliant together. A sleeper that the critics missed. A word of warning, it is very sad and human.