28 of 30 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
"I tried that once, he thought I had something in my eye.", April 8, 2004
Streisand's third directorial effort was greeted with surprisingly vicious reaction from both fans and critics, nearly all of whom immediately labeled it as an over-the-top vanity piece. It also had considerable difficulty at the box office. After opening with strong numbers, the $45 million budgeted film took a nose dive and did not recover. It ended up taking in $46 million domestically ($65 million worldwide), which was a respectable take, but far from the blockbuster status of films like A STAR IS BORN or THE PRINCE OF TIDES. When considering all of the above information, it's a bit surprising to discover that the film is nothing more than an entertaining and heart-felt romantic comedy. In hindsight, it's hard to understand why a such a harmless and light-weight film became such a lighting rod for scathing reviews and harsh comments.
While the storyline is predictable, the movie is actually very well-done with a brisk pace, compelling characters, and a witty screenplay. The finale may come down a bit heavy-handed on the "message" end, but the build-up is effective enough to merit this indulgence. Though MIRROR doesn't match her previous two directorial efforts, Streisand does once again pull off the various actress/producer/director roles with great efficiently, and this results in an effective star vehicle for the then-54-year-old film legend. Jeff Bridges received a lot of flack for his completely unselfconscious portrayal, but I admire how completely he throws himself into the silly role. Lauren Bacall is brilliantly biting and luminous in her turn as Streisand's mother, a role that earned her first (and so far only) Oscar nomination. Mimi Rogers is also fun as Streisand's (...)younger sister, as is Brenda Vaccaro as her self-deprecating best friend - although Pierce Brosnan is wasted as a gigolo-like suitor. All in all, an enjoyably fluffy film, undeserving of the criticism it routinely receives.
About the DVD: This was one of Columbia's first DVD releases, and while the picture and sound quality are great, there are no extras and the menus are hideous.
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38 of 44 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A charming story of personal growth and self-acceptance., July 23, 2004
Barbra Streisand is not dowdy, yet her perfection in assuming the role as a lonely, middle-aged woman (Rose) is flawless. Rose is an excellent and popular college teacher. She knows how to teach, the way to involve and enchant a rowdy class, and she would rather watch baseball than go on another "dead end" date.
Jeff Bridges (Greg) is the handsome, yet exceedingly boring teacher. Most of the students in his math classes sleep, pass notes, chat. He is a lonely man, but all of his interpersonal relationships end as the woman moves on. He believes it is because he chooses stunning woman and then becomes intimate. He decides to find a perfect mate, and the main criterion is that she be ugly. His campaign begins with an advertisement. Claire is Rose?s sister, and she responds to the ad as if she were Rose.
Rose lives with her mother Hanna Morgan, played by Lauren Bacall, who did receive an Oscar nomination for the role of a selfish, self-absorbed, snob. Hanna has kept Rose under her thumb and in her house, and always plays the "What will I do if...?" or "Would you really leave me?" card. Her performance is extraordinary because she undermined Rose to keep her taking care of mommy dearest, but it is subtle.
Streisand directed this film, and though it may appear to be a showcase for her many talents, there is a strong message. Do not settle. Never accept the belief that you are ugly, even though your Mom and others tell you, as they did her all of her life. You can always become the person you want to be.
Rose and Greg date and eventually marry, but the terms are no amorous encounters. For example on their wedding night, they watch TV and they sleep in twin beds. In growing closer and falling in love, Rose teaches Greg "how to teach" and they are constant companions. Rose believes she can settle for this lack of affection, but she is in love with her husband and is a very sensuous woman.
Even though I prefer action films, I loved this movie. It is one of the better "chick flicks." There is a powerful and tender scene between Rose and Hannah regarding a very old photo. The universality of the film ? you are valuable, just as you are, do not settle -- makes this a classic favorite.
Victoria Tarrani
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20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Mirror Has Two Faces, March 14, 2008
While this movie will never win any acclaim or awards, it was a light romantic comedy that hit a home run with me. I liked Jeff Bridges and Barbara Streisand together. They were funny and had good rapport together on screen.
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