View from the Top ** (2003, Gwyneth Paltrow, Christina Applegate, Mike Myers, Kelly Preston) – Classic Movie Review 1712

Director Bruno Barreto’s 2003 comedy drama comes from Gwyneth Paltrow’s post-Oscar era when she was valiantly trying to extend her range. This took her into some odd and uncomfortable places, and this is one of them.

The nearest movie star we have to Grace Kelly nowadays, Gwyneth Paltrow is totally – and bizarrely – miscast but valiantly tries hard to be brittle, vulgar and slutty as trainee flight attendant Donna, dreaming of flying off the international glamour.

Generally the satire doesn’t work too well in this occasionally wilful misfire of a movie, though it has some odd good and funny moments. Mike Myers does save the day a bit in a hilarious turn as a weirdo airline staff trainer. Paltrow is an excellent actress within her range, but this proves she needs careful casting.

Airport movies veteran actor George Kennedy has a cameo. Kelly Preston, Christina Applegate, Candice Bergen, Rob Lowe, Mark Ruffalo, Marc Blucas, Frederick Coffin and Stacey Dash co-star.

© Derek Winnert 2014 Classic Movie Review 1712

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