“Switch”: Ellen Barkin comes with the deal
I recently had the pleasure of seeing Switch again.
If you haven’t seen this 1991 film, you’re missing out. Here’s the short version of the plot: A sexist dude dies and is reincarnated as a woman. But no summary can reveal how entertaining and endearing the movie is — not to mention exciting. When Ellen Barkin flirts with Lorraine Bracco, you’ll gasp with delight. (Or at least my girlfriend did.) See for yourself:
Ellen Barkin is gorgeous throughout the movie — and hilarious. Why hasn’t she done more physical comedy? And why doesn’t she wear tank tops and bandannas more often?
My memory did play tricks with me, though. I could have sworn Barkin and Bracco were actually in a bubble bath together, but the suds were just a setting for a phone call (on a giant ’90s phone).
I don’t want to give too much away, because this is the sort of movie that’s best if you don’t know what to expect. But here’s a trailer, if you must know more:
Director Blake Edwards (that’s Mr. Julie Andrews to me) knew how to maintain just the right mix of smart and sweet, without ever being a smartass or a sap. That’s not easy, and is almost unheard of lately. Oh, and Catherine Keener and JoBeth Williams are in it too. What’s not to love? Netflix it now!