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I saw this movie when it was first released in theaters and was moved by the
film’s tone and message. Ten years later, I’m still stunned by the movie’s powerful
performances and story line. Tom Hanks plays Andrew Beckett, a gay lawyer who’s fired
from the firm when the partners discover Beckett has AIDS. Denzel Washington is Joe
Miller, the lawyer who reluctantly represents Beckett in the lawsuit he brings against
his former employers—but who has the same reservations and concerns about Beckett’s
lifestyle and disease that the defendants do. The film becomes more than just a film
about justice and overcoming prejudice. It’s a film about human bonding and getting past
misconceptions.
Fans of Tom Hanks will be shocked to see how much weight
he lost for this role. If you thought his dedication for Cast Away (see Kristin’s review) was
impressive, you’ll be blown away by what he did for this role. Antonio Banderas (playing
Beckett’s lover) and Denzel Washington add their own powerhouse character work, and
watching the anniversary edition quickly reminds viewers why all of these men have done
well in Hollywood.
The initial DVD release of Philadelphia was
sparse in terms of extra material, but this edition more than makes up for it. Some of
the features included on this DVD are commentary by director Jonathan Demme and
screenwriter Ron Nyswaner, the making-of feature, “People Like Us: Making
Philadelphia,” a documentary “One Foot on a Banana Peel, the Other Foot in the
Grave,” deleted scenes, Bruce Springsteen’s music video for “Streets of Philadelphia,”
and more. This DVD is a must-have for movie fanatics.
I offer a word of
warning for viewers who may have missed the film’s initial release. Philadelphia
is a very stark look at gay prejudice, AIDS and homophobia, and the cruel reality of
dying too young. This is an amazing film, but if these themes are going to offend you,
understand that I’ve warned you—but I still challenge you to watch it.
GRADE: A (movie) A (DVD)
