Match Point

Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Scarlett Johansson, Brian Cox, Emily Mortimer, Matthew Goode

Rated R

Directed by Woody Allen

            “Match Point” is the best Woody Allen film in a long time, although admittedly the director hasn’t exactly been making classics along the lines of “Annie Hall” (although I admit to being a fan of “Small Time Crooks.”) Many people have cited his change in location as his reason for success (New York City to London), but I’d like to think it would be the change in genre. “Match Point” is more of a drama/thriller, unlike Allen’s usual slapstick farces (“Bananas,” one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen, is a good example.)

            Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as Chris Wilton, a youthful tennis player in London who falls in love with Chloe Hewett (Emily Mortimer), the daughter of extremely wealthy businessman Alec Hewett (Brian Cox.) As Chris and Chloe become engaged, Chris is offered a top-notch position at Alec’s firm and is promised a rich lifestyle beyond comprehension. Of course, there’s one diversion – Nola Rice (Scarlett Johansson, not nominated for Best Supporting Actress once again), the girlfriend of Chris’ brother-in-law. As Chris and Nola begin a secret affair, Chris has to choose whether to stay with Chloe and continue a wealthy life, or to leave her for Nola.

            The movie surprises you mid-way through and evolves into a thriller, with a brilliant murder scheme developed by one of the lead characters. What follows is not only exciting but has moral and guilt issues one doesn’t usually expect from an Allen film. Of course, that’s what makes “Match Point” so great – it’s not simply another Woody Allen movie.  

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