neumu [ cinematronic ]




	Mr. Deeds
	Steven Brill Adam Sandler, Winona Ryder, Peter Gallagher, John Turturro, Jared Harris, Steve Buscemi 2002		It was probably a savvy career move for goon-prince Adam Sandler to star in a romantic comedy that demanded less gibbering and barking and more recognizable humanity than that of the troglodytes he usually portrays. He was the moronic son of the devil in his previous effort, "Little Nicky," a strident freak-fest that set no box-office records. But that doesn't mean Sandler, in pursuit of a heartwarming vehicle, should desecrate Frank Capra's 1936 classic "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town." Sorry. Sandler's feeble remake is here. The lovable dork plays Longfellow Deeds, a decent small-town sap who inherits a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate. An evil executive (Peter Gallagher) schemes to usurp Deeds' control of the business. A cynical tabloid reporter (Winona Ryder) tries to dig up dirt on the heir, then succumbs to his unspoiled charms. No surprises here, including the star's usual gross gags. John Turturro as Deeds' loyal butler and Steve Buscemi as Deeds' wall-eyed pal steal the film. And, yes, it's petty larceny.