Majestic, The MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 Content: -1

In the early 1950s, Hollywood screenwriter Peter Appleton (Jim Carrey) sees his career beginning to take off. But then he gets notice to appear before the Congressional Committee on un-American Activities led by Senator Joe McCarthy. With implications of being Communist, Pete quickly sees his dreams fade away. But Pete wakes up on the outskirts of Lawson, California after a late night car accident and cant remember anything. Harry (Martin Landau), owner of the towns run-down theater, recognizes him as his son Luke, who was thought lost during World War II. Lawson lost 62 young men in the war, while others came back feeling less than whole with false limbs. Lost with the war dead was the towns hope for the future, reflected in the neglected Majestic. Believing Pete is Luke, finally returning from the war, restores the towns hope, and the town helps restore the movie palace to its former glory. Lukes girlfriend Adell (Laurie Holden) also has her dreams of love restored in Pete. But when both his memory and the law catch up to Pete, will the towns dreams fade again? Although it rides an emotional rollercoaster, audiences will cheer this inspiring and patriotic story reminiscent of Frank Capras films. Martin Landaus performance is especially touching.

Major themes of rekindled hope, restoring broken lives and reminders of American ideals shine through this refreshingly wholesome film. Adell encourages Pete to stand up for his rights and even gives him a copy of the constitution before a climatic scene. A letter written by Luke to Adell talks about the foundations of America and that there are things worth military action and sacrifice. The themes are especially timely in light of current events. Older audiences will enjoy the old-fashioned morals represented in the film along with the Big Band soundtrack. As Pete and Adell fall in love, it doesn’t mean falling into bed. Unfortunately, the dialogue includes several obscenities and a number of strong profanities. Without the vulgar language, THE MAJESTIC could be recommended for ages 10 and up.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Warner Bros., 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA 91522