RACHEL GETTING MARRIED—A WEDDING TO REMEMBER

AMEND—transitive verb 1: to put right ; especially : to make emendations in (as a text) 2 a: to change or modify for the better : improve <amend the situation> b: to alter especially in phraseology ; especially : to alter formally by modification, deletion, or addition <amend a constitution>

"Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others" Step 9 in AA's 12 Step Program

Making amends is also at the heart of the new Jonathan Demme film RACHEL GETTING MARRIED. The story written by Jenny Lumet centers around Kym, who's been in and out of rehab for ten years, returning home for her sister Rachel's wedding. Anne Hathaway is truly sensational in her portrayal of Kym Buchman. At first you want to absolutely hate her and tell her to shut up (especially during her uncomfortable toast to the bride and groom at the rehearsal dinner), but as the film progresses she breaks your heart.

The film is almost entirely filmed with hand held cameras. The result is a quiet intimate film that makes the viewer feel like they are one of the invited guests to this wedding. Mr. Demme's film career that ranges from mainstream films and documentaries to concert films and all of those skills are showcased here. Not only does he bring out amazing performances from his actors but also from the musical performers including Fab Five Freddy, Tamyra Grey, Robyn Hitchcock as well as Tunde Adebimpe (from TV On The Radio) who plays the groom. I read on the film's website that the majority of the film's extras and wedding guests are made up of Mr. Demme's friends and family. Perhaps that's what gives the film its special look and feel.

Rosemarie DeWitt as Rachel is also sensational and Bill Irwin plays their devoted father with so much overwhelming sweetness that it literally tugs at your heartstrings. Another stand out is Debra Winger as their cool and distant mother and her scene with Anne Hathaway literally hits a crescendo in the film. This film truly does belong to Ms. Hathaway and I'm sure she will be remembered at Oscar time.

RACHEL GETTING MARRIED opens Friday in New York and LA.