Hollywood Ending MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: -2 1/2

Allen writes, directs and stars in this comedy about Val Waxman,a neurotic film director trying to make a comeback. Te Leoni is Ellie, his ex-wife who is now engaged to Hal Yeager (Treat Williams), a major film studio head. Although divorced, Ellie still recognizes that Val is the best director for Hal's new movie about New York. Because Val is from New York, Ellie argues that he could make the film blindfolded. Although reluctant, Hal gives in and hires Val. But Val doesn't need a blindfold when he suddenly goes blind. When no physical cause is found, Val is diagnosed with psychosomatic blindness caused by mental trauma. However, Val hasn't done well in pictures since his Oscar win ten years ago and this may be his last chance for a comeback. With the help of his agent and the Chinese translator for his cameraman, Val tries to hide his problem. When Ellie finds out, she tries to help Val keep up the charade. But how will a pictrure made by a blind director turn out? Woody Allen fans may enjoy the humorous behind the scenes activity as he displays his typical neurotic character. Others may find HOLLYWOOD ENDING less stirring.

Although it takes place with film industry characters, both Val and Ellie are living with others and pre-marital relationships are taken as normal. Val's therapist eventually believes the blindness is based in Val's need to reconcile with his estranged rock musician son. Along with several discussions about sex, one scene features an actress in skimpy underwear who offers to do anything sexual for the director. Although no obscenities are heard, numerous profanities punctuate the dialogue. Despite the positive demonstration of loyalty to Val by his agent and ex-wife, as well as restoration of the relationship with his son, HOLLYWOOD ENDING offers too many mis-guided messages about sexual relations and profane dialogue.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Dreamworks SKG, 1000 Flower St., Glendale, CA 91201