Keeping the Faith *** (2000, Ben Stiller, Edward Norton, Jenna Elfman, Eli Wallach, Anne Bancroft) Classic Movie Review 1717

Director Edward Norton’s 2000 movie stars himself and Ben Stiller as a priest, Father Brian Finn, and a rabbi, Jake Schram, who are in love with the same woman Anna Riley (Jenna Elfman).

Jake is attracted to Anna but can’t marry her because she’s not Jewish and Brian is also attracted to her but the priesthood doesn’t allow it. Finding out about each other’s feelings for Anna puts strains on their friendship.

Stuart Blumberg writes an excellent, witty screenplay for a sparkling, funny comedy-drama, with amusing situations and dialogue, and three super star performances. It’s a strong but slim premise, though it extends comfortably over a long running time of 128 minutes. This is a happy, successful debut as director by Norton, filming in New York, with all three players ideally cast and giving spot on performances.

Norton and Stiller are an effortlessly funny double act; Elfman is especially charming and, among the welcome older generation, there are three outstanding star character performances from Anne Bancroft as Stiller’s mom, Eli Wallach as an old rabbi and the film director Milos Forman as Father Havel.

Ron Rifkin, Holland Taylor, Lisa Edelstein, Rena Sofer and Ken Leung are also in the cast.

Sadly, by 2014, it’s still Norton’s only film as director.

All-time favourite stars Anne Bancroft died on June 6 2005, aged 73, and Eli Wallach died on June 24 2014, aged 98. He was married for 66 years to actress Anne Jackson, who died on April 12 2016. Adieu, dear departed.

© Derek Winnert 2014 Classic Movie Review 1717

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