"For thirty years its been juts the Fabulous Baker Boys, but times change" the tagline read for the surprise hit slice of life drama The Fabulous Baker Boys. This deceptively simple story follows a pair of musicians as they struggle to keep their outdated act alive. What ensues is a compelling character study that explores the dreams we never fully discard, the complacency that we fall into, and the inevitability of change. At once a blunt depiction of creative malaise and a loving tribute to a bygone era the film is never less than fabulous.
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| "That's what you get folks, for makin' whoopee" |
The story begins with brothers Jack and Frank performing in a series of Seattle bars and lounges. After fifteen years performing the same tired standards and trite showtunes Jack yearns for something more. Even as he moonlights at a local jazz club, however, he remains loyal to the act and Frank. Meanwhile, Frank continues to manage the act and sees nothing wring with the decline in their performances as long as the bills continue to be paid. When jobs begin drying up, however, even Frank is forced to contend with the act's grim future. As a last resort they hire call-girl turned chanteuse Susie Diamond as their lead singer. While she breathes new life into the act she also stirs up Jack's desire for something beyond restaurant lounges and hotel bars. The stage is then set for sparks of creativity, romance, and conflict to fly as all three are forced to confront their pasts and face their futures.
Much like its title protagonists, there is much more to
The Fabulous Baker Boys than meets the eye. While the premise of two struggling pianists trying to remain relevant on the lounge circuit seems like the stuff of sitcoms the film is something altogether different. Instead of hijinks the film offers somber reflections upon a world in a constant state of change and how we are inevitably forced to change with it. Over the course of the film the central trio are confronted with their past mistakes and their current complacency. Each are then faced with the bittersweet choice of forcing a new, uncertain, future or fading into obscurity. In this way, the film holds up an uncomfortable mirror to viewers, forcing us to face the compromises that we've resigned ourselves to in our own lives. Even as it explores the sobering reality of mid-life the film still offers romance and a swoon worthy score to lighten the proceedings. Change your tune with
The Fabulous Baker Boys. |
| Brotherly love |
This intimate drama continues to captivate thanks to the compelling performances of its cast. Ellie Raab turns in an endearing performance as Jack's neglected young neighbor, Nina. Jennifer Tilly sows apt comedic skills as daffy waitress and wannabe singer, Blanche. Beau Bridges humanizes the practical and overbearing Frank. Jeff Bridges lends depth to what easily could have been a one-note role as Jack and highlights the torment simmering just beneath his cool exterior. Michelle Pfeiffer is a revelation as she blends wit, vulnerability, and sultry charm in her turn as Susie.
This story of changing times remains timeless over thirty-five years after its release. The wit and hart of the script elevate this slice of life story to universally resonant drama. The performances bring the characters to memorable life and transport viewers to the last days of the lounge circuit. For absolutely fabulous viewing sing along with The Fabulous Baker Boys.
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| Absolutely fabulous |
