This multi-narrative adaptation of short stories by Damon Runyan is a light, engaging delight. Set over the course of New Year’s Eve in 1927, it follows a number of characters on Broadway through a variety of Woody Allen-like shenanigans with an all-star cast that seems to be having a blast. That ensemble includes a charismatic Esai Morales, a grave Rutger Hauer and an energetic Madonna as they go about their individual plotlines, all of which are snappily written, clever and endearing in their own ways. Unfortunately Jennifer Grey and Julie Hagerty have a significant amount of screentime despite their dull, inexplicable performances, which sucks some of the air out of the room. It’s not a great movie but it sure is an entertaining one for fans of stage comedies, Broadway musicals, and old-fashioned Hollywood movies.
Rating: ★★★ (out of 5)
