Genres

Visitors Review

Benzzo 2012-05-24 23:12:03

A pull-the-rug-from-under-your-feet thriller.

Why people on this message board are comparing this movie to CruelIntentions, Scream, and even Pulp Fiction for crying out loud, is beyond me. This picture is much more along the lines of The Usual Suspects and SnakeEyes. Not as far as the plot goes, but concerning the excellent, intriguingstoryline with a horrible ending.Sometimes I just wish movies were bad all the way through, that way youwouldn't be expecting much of anything for the finale. But movies likeGossip might be the worst kind of movie. This film has absolutelyimpeccable acting, with the performance of Edward James Olmos as the no B.S.cop coming first to mind. Eric Bogosian's role is the only questionableone, his class is more like a Jerry Springer show than a learningenvironment.Next to the acting, the film's best trait is its high style (almost too muchstyle, how many college students can afford to live in a pad like that?). Coupled with a tightly-wound storyline everything seems promising. But thensomebody pushes the self-destruct button and everything explodes into utternonsense. I should've known something like that was going to happen while Iwas watching it, otherwise I'm sure I would've heard many praises prior toseeing it.** (out of 4)

FilmFlaneur 2012-05-24 08:01:29

Interesting Drama

Guggenheim's second feature, after almost a decade spent in TV drama, is ataut thriller based on a savage theorem: that the 'pleasure of gossip' isgained by gauging its effects, no matter how cruel and unexpected theresults.There are several things to criticise about 'Gossip': James Masden (who attimes looks something like a young Tom Cruise) is perhaps too lightweightand insubstantial to project the confusion and cunning his role demands.And, even though explained away by an alleged substantial allowance, hisapartment is perhaps too glitzy and fashionable for a college student. Thethesis that Webb, Jones and Travis cook up together is too vague andspontaneous to be of practical use for study purposes. The debate over therape and murder charges are unlikely to be used forteaching purposes as Professor Goodwin permits, the finale is far tooelaborate to be convincing, and so on.But there is also much to enjoy here: not least of which is a plot which,until the final few minutes brings the prerequisite closure that Americanaudiences seem to crave, is clever, unpredictable and thoughtprovoking.Guggenheim can claim Michael Lehmann's now classic 'Heathers' (1989) asone inspiration for 'Gossip'. Kate's introductory remarks'I'm a girl with aproblem. I know better, but I have got myself in a very temptingsituation'recalls Veronica's infatuation and self-analysis in the earlierfilm. Webb's mysterious charm can be compared to that of Jason Dean's, whileboth films share a college ethos, a sense of practical jokes spinningmercilessly out of control - a plot momentum that is only stopped with anunsatisfying ending. The slickness of 'Gossip' betrays its more recentprovenance, and one is left feeling that a grittier, more documentaryapproach might have suited its subject more, particularly as it lacksLehmann's ironic intensity. Fortunately thedirection of Guggenheim's film is right on the button and sweeps mattersalong so that, for most of the time it doesn't matter that some sharpness islost. Guggenheim's work within television has obviously led him to makesomeobservations on the effects of the mass media. Such reflections arearticulated most clearly by the McLuhanite Professor Goodwin, whose lecturesbring most of the principals together, or are expressed in more practicalterms by Travis. A shambling and reclusive figure, in many ways he is themost interesting character in the film and one wishes that his role had beenexpanded to articulate more of this obsessions. His enlargements andmanipulations of Naomi's image in his TV den speak volumes about intrusioninto personal space and it is entirely appositethat Webb's downfall should be captured on a monitor.At the heart of 'Gossip' are many such intrusions. Specifically, the rapes,allegations of rape, and confession of rape, each echoing one another,driving the plot. Webb's earlier encounter with Naomi, his struggle with heron the bed during which she scratches his cheek, his uncertain sexualcoupling with Jones, Noami's allegations concerning Beau… all these arelinked by allegation and gossip. Significantly, the same line is uttered byNaomi to Beau, as she asks him to explain himself, as when Jonesinterrogates Webb about his role in matters: 'that's not an answer'. Thereis, of course, no real effective 'answer' to rumour. It is always a waywardinvention of reality which, as Travis knows, just needs to be 'good, simple,and with room to grow'. As his name suggests, Webb can 'spin' a yarn, catchpeople by their credulity and it will run its course, as for the most partpeople are content to go along with it and enjoy it.Spoiler ahead!Interestingly, the 'pilgrimatic' Jones (a reference to her perceived decencythroughout), confirms the pervasive nature of rumour, when she contrives thescenario that forces Webb's confession. The 'death' of Naomi is conveyed toWebb third hand and 'confirmed' by the word of others. It is of course stillonly rumour, but under semblance of a reliable report. Fittingly, Webb iscompletely taken in when his own weapon is used against him. By the end ofthe film, as she admit, Jones has acquired, albeit in a good cause, guileand deceiving skills of her own. Her own satisfaction at her use of methodsshe had previously condemned, may be tempered by sadness. But the audiences'pleasure in following through the train of events that unfold, and realisingthat it was all fabricated, only emphasises the truth of Webb'sexercise.

2012-05-19 14:59:53

Marsden's Triumph.

Didn't really want to see this...mostly because it came off as just another stupid teen flick. Eventually, I did sit down and watch it, a little disappointed with the plot itself,James Marsden's acting sure did fix it up a whole lot. That was without a doubt the highlight of this film. The plot itself was a little above marginal...kind of following in "Cruel Intentions" footsteps. A little iffy here and there, and it trys in certain aspects to become a little bit artsy. The drama in it is also okay, nothing extravagant. Although, with all of the other teen films out nowadays("Boys and Girls", "I know what you did last summer", and "She's All That") this is much much better than those. With those being far far too pointless and unimaginable, this is a little bit more believable. Yet, it could have been a little more spread out, and the ending was a little too "Saved By the Bell"-ish, the alternate ending was, in my eyes, far superior(only on the D.V.D.).The only reasons I gave this four stars, which normally would have received a three, was Marsden's performance. He didn't really get a chance to shine in "X-MEN" but he lit up the screen quite marvelously. I'm convinced that with the right roles, he's the world's next Brad Pitt. He's above the stupid teen flick actors such as Freddie Prinze, who could be a bit better if he expanded more. That's why I think it's important that Marsden chooses the right roles in the future and not become another Mark Paul Gossaler(or however you spell it), or even Freddie Prinze. He did do a good job signing for the "X-MEN" seqeuls, so he's on his way to stardom. I'll be looking for more films with him in the future. This is by far his best acting known to me, better than "Cyclops" in "X-MEN" and "Steve" in "Disturbing Behavior". Good luck to him in the future.

smahoney-2 2012-05-19 11:14:46

Another teen suspense thriller, do we need another one?

Well can we say formula, can we say overdone, can we say bad! I think itisabout time that hollywood producers stop making crappy teen flicks likethis,Scream was great, I know what you did last summer was a masterpiececomparedto this movie. Bad directing, bad acting and bad twists make for this tobea bad movie. I warn all who see this movie that you are in for a longapproximately 90 minute nap, sure cure for insomnia.

2012-05-18 07:55:14

Intertesting film.

Three university students (James Marsden, Lena Headly, Norman Reedus) start a nasty rumor about a student (Joshua Jackson) raped a beautiful student (Kate Hudson) at a college bar. Then there more trouble, when one of the three students had a dark past with the beautiful student.Directed by Davis Guggenhiem (Producer of Oscar-Winning:Training Day) made a clever/mystery/thriler with only fault is with the last half-hour. DVD`s has strong anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1) transfer and Pan & Scan is included. Excellent Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. The film included an running commentary track by director:Guggenhiem & Actor: Mardesn). This could've been a Perfect Film, if it's wasn't for the last half-hour, which it's becomes far-fecthed and unbelivable (especially at the Climax). Strong Cinemagraphy by filmmaker:Andrezj Bartkowiak (Romeo Must Die, Exit Wounds) does helps. Screenplay by Gregory Poirier (A Sound of Thunder) and Theresa Bebeck (Harriet the Spy), from a story by Poirier. Panavision. Grade:B+.

2012-05-17 20:23:01

What were they thinking??

After reading the other reviews, I felt it was necessary to give customers an ACCURATE description of this movie. It was a huge waste of celluloid! The acting is below par, (even by the standards set by these actors) the story has no imagination, it is ludicrous and if you are going to buy this movie, you might as well throw your money into a gutter, or send it to me so I can buy you a good movie.

Yoda18 2012-05-15 00:25:02

I was very impressed.

I went to the theater not knowing what to expect, but I wasreally impressed because the acting was very good and the plotwas excellent. Towards the middle of the movie, you tend to getan idea of what's going to happen, but the ending is a completesurprise. I really can't think of a bad thing to say about themovie

2012-05-14 14:17:56

THE WORST FILM I'VE EVER SEEN?

It could well be that this is the worst film I've ever seen, and I've seenKolobos. At least Kolobos had some redeeming features, like the fact thatitcouldn't be taken seriously. Like a preening, self-righteous supermodel,GOSSIP begs to be taken seriously, yet ends up being superficial and empty.However, perhaps the film's biggest sin is that it is just plain nasty. I'mguessing that the makers of this film wanted us to think about theimplications of spreading rumours, but all I could think about was how gladI was that someone else paid for my ticket.

Cirquemm 2012-05-05 20:13:18

HOTTT!

i saw this movie a couple of hours ago. it was fun, hip, sexy, sassy, andreally dangerous. the plot made no sense, but i loved it. i wish it waslonger. i could have watched that movie for hours. i think everyone shouldsee "Gossip."

groundpilot43061 2012-05-05 02:09:04

Drama With Plot And Suspense

I recently seen this movie and I must say I was more than impressed. Iwas totally in shock when I discovered the final ending to the story.Yes Kate Hudson's performance is not some of her best work. (TheSkelton Key) But all in all the rumor mill started by 3 collegestudents. They want to see how starting a rumor about someone willchange when it gets back to them as a class experiment. Not realizingthat words even said innocently can hurt and destroy peoples lives.This is all I will say about this film for now except to say don't letthe anyone influence you watch this MOVIE yourself. Then you can makeup your own mind. As for me I rated this an 8/10.

2012-05-05 09:24:19

very happy

This review is from: Gossip (DVD) Brand new as description said. Arrived quicker than I expected. Very happy with my product. Will be sure to order from seller again.

2012-05-04 21:34:22

WOW!!

The whole movie keeps you on the edge of your seat, and then it hits you!!! a grand ending that you never see coming!! very nice!! 'nough said!not to mention how gook lena looks too! ;) great actors...

2012-04-27 04:59:13

Liar Liar

Oh well, another teen movie...This one, however, has an agenda and manages to deliver a message about the power of rumours and lies in today`s world (particularly in a US Campus). The plot focuses three college students, a pretty, arrogant and rich boy, a curious and smart girl and a reserved, shy artist-wannabe. These journalism students create a gossip just for fun (and also for a work they had to make), but its consequences end up being more serious than what they first thought.Yes, the movie`s premise isn`t bad, yet its execution is not very interesting, delivering a contrived morality tale that, despite some attempts at being hip and surprising, doesn`t dare to go beyond a typical afterschool special. The direction is nothing special, the soundrack is decent and the acting is just a collection of cute faces that present flat and cardboard characters."Gossip" is watchable but unsubstancial, an average teen movie that lacks edge and a good script (the ending is particularly ridiculous and childish). Still, some highschool students out there may like this nonetheless, since they probably can relate to it. Anyway, spread the gossip: this flick is worth skipping.

weberpr 2012-04-26 15:30:30

Gossip

Gossip is a Drama/Thriller about three college friends Derrick (JamesMarsden) Cathy (Lena Headey) and Travis (Norman Reedus who decide tospread gossip for one of there assignments and see how quickly it canspread, but it spirals out of control. With appearances from (JoshuaJackson) and (Kate Hudson) Gossip was not a film that grabbed myattention when it was released I like James Marsden in (DisturbingBehaviour) but just wasn't a plot for me to get into. Gossip hadsomething very likable about but ultimately crashed and burned (NormanReedus) delivered a great performance as the guy laying low and JamesMarsden was strong but it was a predictable plot and a slow story thefirst half of the film doesn't revolve around much.I can't pinpoint what it was I liked about it maybe the eeriness of thegossip and Norman Reedus's performance, so much potential,disappointing though.

LondonOnMyMind 2012-04-25 19:44:25

Wicked and stylish fun

"Gossip" barely got noticed when it was released. This reception waspossibly due to the generally slow box office of April 2000, but alsoto the fact that, at times, the film's style compensates for its lackof substance. Still, the film is a fun way to spend a few hours and thescreenplay provides a unique story.The acting is pretty good, especially from the three leads - LenaHeadey (Cathy), James Marsden (Derrick) and Norman Reedus (Travis). Isaw Headey in some other films after this one, namely "Face" and"Ripley's Game", and was impressed not only by her emotional range, butalso by her mastery of accents. Both Marsden and Reedus are betteractors than they are given credit for.The film's style and locales epitomize what I would personally call'twenty-first century chic'. The loft is ultra cool, and so is theclub. In fact, the film is worth seeing for its locales alone.Overall, a nice little thriller. I give it a 7/10.

mandii faris 2012-04-25 06:00:58

Inconsistent, Drawn Out MESS

Expecting a fresh, enticing study as to how gossip grows from people's sickobsession with other people's business, instead i found Gossip to benothingmore than a jumbled mess of flat characters, inconsistencies, andmeaningless tangents. While the end was surprising, it was only surprisingbecause it made very little sense after closely studying the preceedingscenes in the movie. If you're looking for an actual good movie's alongthesame lines, check out Cruel Intentions. Don't waste your money on thiswannabe piece of crap.

gridoon 2012-04-25 07:09:03

Top-of-the-line mystery.

"Gossip" works like quicksand - you never know where you're standing, and itsucks you in deeper and deeper, as the engrossing script reveals one layerof deception after another. The characters are compelling because they arenot clearly defined as "good guys" and "villains"; you'll find yourperceptions about them constantly changing throughout the film. Despite itssetting and its handsome young cast (Lena Headey is truly a talent to watchout for), this is not yet another "hip" teen slasher flick; it's anexploration of the nature of truth. Or, as Hercule Poirot would put it,"Yes, the truth is so difficult to tell". (***)

stormgage 2012-04-24 20:44:47

A Good, super twisty movie that shines

I happened to like this intense twisted movie, despite the poor reviews bysome. I thought the plot was original and cleaver. I didn't know thatwhatwas going to happen at the end would happen. I'm still trying to figurethings out. I liked the characters, especially new comer Lena Heady. Ithought they all did an excellent job. I don't feel this film is justanother teen flick, it has substance and creativity. I hope people give itachance because I think it's worth it. I loved it and plan on seeing itagain. I give it a B.

Jordan 2012-04-20 03:32:19

Fun Way to Spend 90 Minutes

When i first heard that Gossip was being released i thought it was going tobe another "Wack" Teen Murder Flick. I was surprised to find out itwasn't.Although the story line was weak and a lot of the events that transpire aresomewhat predictable it was just plain out fun to watch. James Marsden iswithout a doubt the highlight of the film and its cool watching him lie andmanouver to try and get out of every bad situation. I was a fan of theending and the music throughout rocks especially Tonic's "Mean to Me" attheend credits. So if your looking to kill an hour and a half, check itout.

wforeman 2012-04-19 17:59:31

critics hated...i loved it..who listens to critics anyway. high 7 out of 10

i have no idea why this film has been so bad mouthed by the public. paidcritics may have some bad bad mouthing to do, as they insult any film whichdoesn't have a shakespearion performance in it. but as for the public, ihave no idea of there problemthis film kept me on the edge of my seat for the majority of the film. thefilm started of well, got abit slow when the rumours got going, but after awhile this film speeded up, with twist and turns coming at you like nobodies business.the film was set up in a way that multiple plot twist were on offer. (slightspoiler) after the girl was killed, i became weary of all thecharacter.with all the multiple plot twist on offer, this one used one that i neverwould have expected. i'm usually quite good at guessing plot twist ( workout the twists in reindeer games, andprimal fear half hour into them), but this one i never got.the only problem i have with this film was ( spoiler) ...that it was neverexplained why artist room mate had an obsession with the murdered girl, andwhy he started screwing about with the murdered girls face on his computerscreen, when the other two roommates were shagging.when all is said and done, this was a great movie, which i would definetelysee again. 7 out of 10