SNMR 5.5: "Alfie"

Tonight's SNMR feature is "Alfie" (2004, R, 105 minutes), starring Jude Law, Marisa Tomei, Omar Epps, Nia Long, Susan Sarandon, Jane Krakowski and Sienna Miller. The film was directed by Charles Shyer.

PLOT SUMMARY: In this updating of the 1966 Michael Caine film of the same name, Alfie (Law) is a man who loves women. Lots and lots of women. Problem is he's afraid of commitment. When Alfie makes the mistake that costs him his best friend, he does some serious soul searching. What does he discover about himself and his life?

MY OPINION: The only redeeming quality about this film is that Alfie gets exactly what he deserves. Jude Law gives his usual decent performance and the supporting cast of women (Tomei, Sarandon, Miller, Long and Krakowski) are very good in their limited scenes. I found it a bit disconcerting and annoying that the Alfie character talks directly to the camera for a good part of the film. The script isn't particularly well written and the talent of Law and company carries this film as far as they can - which isn't far.

*1/2 out of *****