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ARTICLE

Not Long From Now: Kate and Leopold
by Alex Keen
Published: November 29, 2001

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Today I was able to see an unfinished print of “Kate and Leopold.” Here I will list my impressions of the film as it was shown, but will avoid reviewing the film because of its current condition. At this point a number of things could change in the film (soundtrack, frame manipulation, and editing). Therefore I will not be grading it.

“Kate and Leopold” is a romantic time-travel film from screenwriter and director James Mangold. Mangold is best known for adapting and directing “Girl, Interrupted.” Looking down the rest of his filmography, Mangold has “Copland,” and the acclaimed indie, “Heavy,” to his credit. With “Kate and Leopold,” Mangold returns to the genre of romance he delved in with “Heavy.”

“Kate and Leopold” stars romantic comedy pixie Meg Ryan and Aussie head-turner Hugh Jackman. Ryan portrays a 21st century corporate ladder climbing yuppie, Kate McKay. After ending a relationship with time-travel theorist Stuart (Liev Schreiber of “Scream” and “Hamlet” fame), Kate magically meets a man out-of-time, Duke Leopold (Jackman).

As all romantic comedies of this mold develop, the man out of touch charms the lady into loving his outlook on our strange world. Then something dramatic happens, their love is doubted, which leaves the couple in a lurch. And that’s where I will leave you – to avoid spoiling it any further.

Keeping in mind that my version of “Kate and Leopold” was incomplete, this film has nothing to lose in the finishing process. Sure, a couple of scenes seem contrived and a bit long – however the majority of the story is fun. It must be realized that a film dealing with love across time boundaries is a very fragile entity. Too often it melts into drivel like “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” and “Just Visiting.” Where silliness and zany happenings overwhelm the story. While walking on eggshells, “Kate and Leopold” is able to successfully remain romantic, interesting, and genuine.

The direction in the film is subtle and almost invisible. On several occasions Mangold allows the settings and their placement overshadow his characters. Sometimes they need to breathe outside of a where they are supposed to be.

With a story that demands solid performances, Mangold is able to get quality work from the majority of his cast. Jackman continues to prove that he is more than just the action star seen in “X-Men.” With “Kate and Leopold,” and “Someone Like You” earlier this year, Jackman appears to have more in common with Mel Gibson then perhaps a Stallone or a Schwarzenegger. And although Jackman is not likely to receive an Oscar nomination for either role, one should not be too far in the future. He comes across as the perfect charming gentlemen, and yet is also able to push beyond that type. As Leopold, Jackman is able to break through all preconceived ideas without abandoning the characters reality.

Meg Ryan as Kate McKay begins the picture in standard Meg way. There is very little that separates the Ryan of “Sleepless in Seattle” and “You’ve Got Mail” from Kate. While Ryan never fails the film, as Kate she never discovers anything relevant to discuss. She almost seems incomplete. By the films conclusion, it almost feels like her perspective was lost in the hustle and bustle of the plot.

By far the best performance of “Kate and Leopold” was Schreiber as Stuart. He instigates much of the plot, and consistently delivers the film’s funniest lines. In comparison to some of the best modern romantic comedies, Schreiber matches up with Dave Chappelle in “You’ve Got Mail,” Rosie O’Donnell in “Sleepless in Seattle,” and Jason Alexander in “Pretty Woman.” His maniacal mishaps, along with a sparkle of charm and charisma keep the story lively and entertaining.

In addition to Schreiber’s great work, supporting players Bradley Whitford, Breckin Meyer, and Natasha Lyonne perform far above expectations. Specifically Meyer, who’s struggling sitcom seems to have tarnished his reputation, keeps the film progressing when Schreiber is off-screen. Meyer brings a realistic personality to Kate and Leopold’s romance. Without which, the afore-mentioned drivel effect was likely to occur. As for Lyonne and Whitford, they help round out some the rough edges Kate exposes.

Overall, “Kate and Leopold” is the kind of romantic comedy that is based more on magic then anything. It seems to have many similarities to Sandra Bullock’s first romantic comedy, “While You Were Sleeping.” As one of Miramax’s major holiday releases, “Kate and Leopold” should entertain a variety of audiences, and is a much higher caliber of film than last year’s “Family Man.”