Globalization advocates often discuss a world that is more open, visually diverse, and free of social barriers. However, despite these advancements, some individuals, even in multi-ethnic, multi-racial, and multi-cultural societies, tend to stick to tightly knit groups where everyone knows each other. One film that explores this phenomenon is Little City, a 1997 drama written and directed by Roberto Benabib.
Set in San Francisco, the story follows Adam (portrayed by Josh Charles), a painter who works as a cab driver. Adam is still haunted by the memory of his ex-girlfriend Kate (played by Joanna Going), who left him for Anne (played by Jo Beth Williams). This unresolved issue causes Adam to neglect his new girlfriend Nina (played by Anabella Sciorra). Complicating matters further, Nina becomes pregnant by Adam's best friend Kevin (played by Jon Bon Jovi), a womanizing bartender who sets his sights on Rebecca (played by Penelope Ann Miller), a new waitress.
While the term "dramedy" is often associated with lackluster comedy writing, Little City manages to embody the genre effectively. The film strikes a balance between serious drama and quirky comedy, setting it apart from traditional romantic comedies. Drawing comparisons to Crowe's Singles, Little City stands out with its well-written characters and the theme that even in a bustling city, one can find themselves in a small town environment within their social circles. The performances are solid, with Jon Bon Jovi showcasing his talent as an actor. The film's only misstep lies in Benabib's use of character monologues to convey inner thoughts, which can sometimes feel forced and artificial.
Overall, Little City is a charming film that is worth watching, despite its flaws.
RATING: 6/10 (++)
(Original post date: July 24th, 2004)
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