FIELD OF DREAMS (1989)

SHORT REVIEW: A near classic. Too bad about the crappy acting – this could have been one of the great American classics. Many people love this film. I can easily see why this is the case. I however, only love parts of it. There are two flaws to be found in this film that ruins the whole piece for me. #1. “Actress” Amy Madigan. #2. Every scene involving #1. If you don’t know who Amy Madigan is, she’s the screeching scarecrow standing next to Kevin Costner. This woman cannot act. I have no idea how she continues to get work. She mugs in every scene she is in and distracts from the film at every turn. Her shrill voice makes my ears bleed and her sophomoric attempts at acting make me want to cry. Watch the film again and watch her struggle with her scenes. There is nothing natural about this woman’s work. She always looks like she is waiting for the other actor to finish with their lines so she can start hers. In a fair world, she would have never progressed past performing in high school musicals. But, life is not intended to be fair and this woman career is a testament to that fact. Despite the deeply annoying scenes with the wife, this is a truly delightful piece. Kevin Costner made his career on this film and for good reason. His every man charm is in full play here and he comes across as not only believable but very sympathetic. Ray Liotta is also notable as Shoeless Joe Jackson. I imagine everyone who is reading this has already seen this film. If not, it is certainly something you should try to get in. I should offer this suggestion. If you have a dog and you’re watching this on your television, you should hit the mute button when Madigan speaks. The pitch of her banshee scream voice may irritate or possibly harm your dogs’ ears. Categories: film, movie, DVD, review, Kevin Costner, baseball, Shoeless Joe Jackson, James Earl Jones'