Green Book, named for a 1960's guide used by black motorists to help navigate road travel and lodging, works as both a crowd pleasing dramedy and as an odd couple road film, but not much more.
The chemistry and dialogue between bouncer and driver Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen) and musician and employer Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) is spot on. The film, written and directed by Peter Farrelly (Dumb and Dumber, Something About Mary), is witty and gorgeous to look at. It winningly invites the audience to follow the two (real life) characters driving their way through north and southeast America in 1962.
This film has heart and it tugs at yours as Hollywood does best. Unfortunately, a sentimental, feel good story set so squarely in the racial politics of the 1960's was inappropriate enough to keep me from fully enjoying this well crafted film. A difficult call, but I can't recommend this one.
In a nutshell: It's an enjoyable road film with two compelling actors and many feel good movie moments. However, it's difficult to not see this as the white savior, feel-good movie of award season.
Award potential: Expect nominations anyway for Best Film, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Original Score and a host of other slots including a Best Costume nomination for designer Betsy Heimann.
Ten Buck Review: Not worth ten bucks.
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