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Desperation Boulevard | Year: 1998 Directed: - Greg Glienna Actors/Actresses: - Burt Ward - Erin Moran - Dana Plato Hysterical Take On Fame "I'm not an angel, but I play one on TV" Where has this little gem of a film been hiding since 1998? To see Burt Ward, Erin Moran, Dana Plato, and Ken Osmond playing cards and discussing infomercials (even the director's cuts of those -- "It's colon cleanser...just SPRINKLE it!") they've done is quite a hoot, and that scene alone is worth the price of seeing this film! Ah, when the stars have to come down from the hill and have to live with the rest of us...it's also eerie that this was one of Plato's last appearences in a film with a title as Desperation Boulevard, but there's a loving "In Memory Of" for her at the end credits. While the Comedy Central TV show STRIP MALL with Julie Brown showed a more zany take on the life of a has-been former child actor, her character was a bit self-centered (though I worship Ms. Brown of course!). In Desperation Boulevard, Judy Tenuta's character of Joan, a has-been former child actor is quite different in the fact that you really feel for her plight, and she is actually a likeable gal. I was amazed to see Tenuta showing quite a bit of sincerity in her role, which gave this film a bit of reality in the midst of silly stunts she tried to get back in the public eye once again. At times wacky, then charming, there's a nice balance that will have you smiling even if you're not laughing out loud. Michael Lerner is fine as the oblivious agent, and Will Shriner shows some compassion as a former Joan's former love. There are fun appearances by Burt Ward, Erin Moran, Dana Plato, Ken Osmond, Weird Al Yankovic, Emo Philips, Rhonda Shear, and Melanie Hutsell that work well with the story instead of just being a "spot the pseudo-celebrity" type of thing. I found myself laughing hard when Erin Moran had such a look of glee on her face for taking credit for a liquor store robbery that Tenuta tried to pull off! The scenes from the girl scout horror film were an absolute stitch as well: "She earned her merit badge in TERROR!" Even though the "gift of the magi" ending is a bit tidied up, it's still satisfying and and the hired stalker gives a boost to any scene he just happens to be standing in! There's a lot of heartfelt charm to this film as well as the comedy, and it was interesting to see the mild level of language instead of trying for a hard "R-rated" theme. It has just enough to make it pleasing to adults. I've always been a fan of Judy Tenuta, and seeing her play more than a wacky gal is really a nice surprise. Desperation Boulevard is a pleasant low-budget escape from a sea of big-budget wastes of time. This one is definitely worth your while if you appreciate a good take on fame and selflessness. Not since Christopher Guest's THE BIG PICTURE have I enjoyed such a take on Hollywood. Be sure to stick through the end credits to see some outtakes and a tap-dancing Anne Frank play! It has to be seen to be believed! A Near Classic I saw this film at a screening in Chicago several years back and am glad to see it finally is available on DVD. This film is a hoot! Judy Tenuta plays a former child actress who seen better days and tries a number of schemes to get back on top. Watch for Erin Moran, of Happy Days playing an evil version of herself! Too many funny moments to talk about here - the only negative is the cheesy ending but still a very funny film. Funny and Kinda Sweet I rented this film because it sounded like an interesting concept and I have to say, I really liked it. I laughed out loud a number of times and thought it kept a nice balance between over the top and believability that is rare in Hollywood comedies. The performance were pretty good, especially Michael Lerner as a deluded talent agent. The scene where the main character, a grown up former child actress, poses as a lesbian in an effort to get publicity for her stalled career is worth the price of the film alone. I can honestly recommend this film and be sure to watch the closing credits to see a tap dancing Anne Frank musical scene that's truly funny. Buy Desperation Boulevard at Amazon.com Buy posters at Allposters.com Jamster - the latest ringtones for your phone!  Search with Walhello on the Internet on Desperation Boulevard Search with the Priority Search Engine on Desperation Boulevard This page in other languages: Suomeksi | Nederlands | Deutsch
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