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There are at least three signs a movie is going to be a stinker: When two or more screenwriters are credited, if it is released without any advanced screenings or if it’s been sitting on the shelf for more than a year.
"Haven," set in the Cayman Islands, was made in 2004 and, though it’s got some problems, seems to be an exception to the third rule.
It’s an ensemble piece about a small group whose lives intersect. Carl Ridley (Bill Paxton) is a corrupt businessman who barely escapes the Feds with his remaining million clams. The move does not please his daughter, Pippa (Agnes Bruckner), but on her first day in the Caymans, she meets Fritz (Victor Rasuk), a charming islander who keeps some bad company. Shy (Orlando Bloom) is an unassuming, sensitive fisherman whose love for the boss’ daughter Andrea (Zoe Saldana) has tragic consequences.
"Haven" is in the time-changing style "Pulp Fiction" made famous. Some movies use it successfully ("Amores Perros," 2000) and others don’t ("Running Scared," 2006). Although the approach is sometimes effective and demands attention, it ultimately hurts this movie.
What helps "Haven," however, is that the intertwining storylines are interesting and compelling. Paxton (who is good in almost everything) invests his character with a certain complexity and empathy. The film only hints at what Ridley did, but you’re pretty sure he’s not the nicest guy when it comes to business. Yet, he clearly loves his daughter. In fact, all of the characters are interesting — no one is black or white.
Andrea’s brother (Anthony Mackie), for example, is hardly innocent, but his dark streak is balanced with a nice side.
"Haven" is the first feature film for Cayman Islands native Frank E. Flowers, who effectively uses the beautiful locale to enhance and complement the events.
The acting is just fine. Particularly good are Bloom and Saldana as star-crossed lovers. Steven Dillane also gives a worthy effort as Ridley’s banker.
"Haven" doesn’t quite get there, but is worth watching — if only for the scenery.
Haven
R
Two-and-a-half reels out of four
In area theaters tomorrow
Recommended rental
Curious George
G
Available Tuesday
One of the most pleasant surprises of the past cinematic year has been this adaptation to the beloved children’s classic "Curious George." So simple, it could be mistaken for brainless. But in an age where CGI has all but taken over animation, the movie makes a case for old school.
Will Ferrell is the voice of "The Man in the Yellow Hat" and it’s easily his best performance, free of his ham on wry.
The animation perfectly recreates the books and the other performers are just fine.
