Plot: What’s it about?
Dan Mahowny (Philip Seymour Hoffman) rose through the ranks at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce faster than anyone else. His incredible ascension couldn’t be matched, but he wasn’t a typical corporate climber, to say the least. Mahowny kept to himself and wasn’t a flashy person, even when he reached high levels of management, he lived a reasonable lifestyle. His suits were basic and unimpressive, while his car was a simple and inexpensive one, even though his salary allowed him to live a more extravagant existence. That extra money wasn’t being stored in a bank account or other financial program however, instead Mahowny funnels his resources into a less stable market, the world of high stakes gambling. His past in this realm as been poor, as he loses money hand over fist on terrible wagers. His methods are lousy and random, which leaves him down by thousands and thousands of dollars. But he cuts back in other parts of his life, to make sure he has extra funds to use in his compulsive habit. He soon hits his worst losing streak ever though, one which has him backed into a corner. His job offers his access to millions of dollars, so he dips in and gets what he needs, with plans to win back the removed funds. Will his plan work as he expects, or will his addiction turn his life into total ruination?
This movie was given a limited theatrical release, but didn’t make much of a splash, though both audiences and critics were positive. So now Owning Mahowny has a chance for new life, as it hits home video and a wider potential audience. As based on real life events, Owning Mahowny deals with some powerful issues and resounds long after the end credits have passed. I was drawn to this movie by the presence of Philip Seymour Hoffman, who has become one of the most gifted workers around. He is able to take even small roles and make them memorable, but more on his performance later in the review. Hoffman isn’t alone here either, as the cast also includes such talents as Minnie Driver, John Hurt, and Maury Chaykin. I found the performances to be strong across the board, which is excellent news, since the material is so damn good. The simple nature of the film, which has no special effects or action sequences, is sure to let down some viewers, but if you want good writing and great performances, this is your ticket. I am a fan of intense character studies, so this was a real pleasure, as it deals with obsession, personal ruin, and compulsion, elements which all of us have experienced, at least to some extent. So if you’re a fan of Hoffman or just love good movies, then this one is highly recommended.
The driving force in this film is Philip Seymour Hoffman, who carries the movie with a superb all around performance. He seems like a natural choice for this kind of role, as he is able to convey inner demons so damn well. Even with clunky glasses and a cheap mustache, Hoffman is impressive and never disappoints in Owning Mahowny. Then again, we should have known he would be on his game, as Hoffman is known for his excellent work. If he is handed a small role, he makes it stand out and with leading roles, he easily comes through. He is given the lead in this picture, which he makes the most of and really hammers home a dynamic performance. Hoffman provides a natural turn here, never going over the top with the character, which would have been a disastrous choice, given the somber tone of the movie. But Hoffman nails the role and as a result, Owning Mahowny is a terrific motion picture. Other films with Hoffman include Boogie Nights, Love Liza, My Boyfriend’s Back, Hard Eight, and Red Dragon. The cast also includes Minnie Driver (Grosse Pointe Blank, Good Will Hunting), John Hurt (Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, The Elephant Man), and Maury Chaykin (Mystery Alaska, The Mask of Zorro).
Video: How does it look?
Owning Mahowny is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen. The visual treatment here won’t win any awards, but it is passable. The print used looks solid, with no major debris to mention, but grain often slinks into the picture. Not an extreme amount, but enough to notice and in some scenes, enough to soften the visuals a touch. The image isn’t that sharp either, as the visuals have a soft, bland presence that never impress. But the muted colors are intentional, so don’t be put off by the weak look of the hues. I found contrast to be good also, but not quite as refined as I would have liked. I have to admit, this transfer comes up short in most respects, but some of the problems are inherent to the source material. So while not up to the usual high standards for a new release, this is still a passable presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
This movie runs on dialogue and little else, so the Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack isn’t dynamic, but it is effective. The audio focus remains on the subtle elements, which is good, since the vocals are the main ingredient here. The surrounds are by no means silent however, as atmosphere is quite good throughout and adds depth to the experience. Of course, this entails background noise and such, not overly powerful elements, but this material needs more subtle touches than anything, so it all works rather well. The musical soundtrack adds a little more life also, but don’t expect too much in this case. The main element is dialogue however, which comes through in clean and clear fashion at all times. Columbia seems to be slipping in the subtitles area these days, as none have been provided on this release.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes the film’s theatrical trailer.
