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by Lisa, published on March 10, 2008 Normally I'm a little weary of movie adaptations of books that I have previously read and enjoyed, however this book was different and this movie was different for a couple of reasons. First, the book "The Tracey Fragments" felt like it had been written to be performed, and after reading it, it came as no surprise to find that the author had performed monologue from the book on several occasions. Secondly was the fact that the screenplay was written by non other than Maureen Medved the author of the book, so I figured if anyone was gonna protect the integrity of the novel it'd be the author. Ellen Page plays Tracey Berkowitz just a normal 15 year old who hates herself, Tracey tell us this from the back of a bus wearing only a shower curtain. Medved takes us on a journey through the psyche of Tracey a teenage outcast, desperately scouring the cold city for her younger brother Sonny, who thinks he's a dog. Bruce McDonald does a decent job of conveying to the non-linear and irrational teenage mind of Tracey Berkowitz, my only criticism would be with all the split screens. Now I can handle it when the screen splits into 2 or 3 sections, hell I think I could handle 4.... but 12 and 20, well that's just taking things a lil too far, and tends to annoy rather than entertain. Thankfully this did not ruin the film. With exception to some dubious camera jiggery pokery that didn't suit my palate, this was great little flick. Ellen Page was perfect for the role, she has constantly impressed me with her film choices and her desicision to steer away from the standard teen flick... I just hope the cash doesn't lure her into sh*te roles. On a side note it was super nice to see Maxwell McKabe-Lokos reunited with Ellen in this movie (check out "Mouth to Mouth"). In conclusion, go forth to and find the little artsy fartsy theatre that's showing this film and watch it... and if you can't find it playing go read the book. Rating: 3,5 out of 5 Source: www.matchflick.com |