Multiplicity

Multiplicity, starring Michael Keaton & Andie MacDowell is a refreshing morsel of a movie by director, Harold Ramis. Spread too thin between family and work obligations Doug Kinney (Keaton) has experimental clone surgery done to give himself more quality time. Each clone has a personality of his own, with one for Doug's masculine side, one for his feminine side, and one (a copy of another clone) that appears to either be Doug's inner child or mentally handicapped.

When I first saw this movie, following all the hype about the special effects required to create multiple Keatons, I was disappointed. The film seemed to subsist solely on the expensive gimmick, rather than a compelling plot. But, upon re-watching the movie, I reconsidered a few things:

First, while actors usually deal with one duplication of themselves on film (and it's a clumsy exchange at best), Keaton was able to deal with three more of himself, while still maintaining adequate comedic timing and natural interaction. And Keaton is animated enough in his body movements and facial expressions that he gives each copy of himself unique mannerisms and speech patterns.

Second, after Keaton's earlier films (Beetle Juice and Batmans 1 & 2), anything without extravagant costumes and Danny Elfman's blaring, brassy score was sure to disappoint. Focus on the film's special effects, rather than the more intimate storyline, was also misguiding. But, even on the smaller scale, "Multiplicity" is enjoyable and surprisingly humorous. In fact, it's much closer in tone to Andie MacDowell's usual films.

This film is as breezy and easy-going as a sunny afternoon, and renting it is sure to leave you equally satisfied.