Keeping Mum MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 Content: -4

Note: this film was NOT RATED at the time of the review. The "R" rating listed is a reflection of the content.

Rowan Atkinson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Maggie Smith, Patrick Swayze. Dark comedy. Written by Niall Johnson, Richard Russo.

FILM SYNOPSIS: Rowan Atkinson stars in this black comedy about a mild-mannered minister is oblivious to the needs of his family: a foul-mouthed wife who is having an affair; a foul-mouthed 17-year-old daughter having many affairs; and a middle school-aged son bullied by everyone. Along comes the new housekeeper, a cross between Nanny McPhee and Norman Bates. Loving and kind, the helpful domestic will not stand for injustice or annoyance. Our first inkling that all is not right with her comes when one night we hear a bong, then suddenly the next door neighbors dog, a creature with the capacity to bark nearly 24-hours a day, barks no more.

PREVIEW REVIEW: The funny premise and delivery is spoiled by the graphic sexuality and even more graphic language. Though the Vicker is a bit of a boob, hes not made fun of; nor is the sermon that he is putting together. But it was grievous to see and hear the actions and cynical of his wife, who somewhere along the line, has lost her faith. Any perceived moral message is eclipsed by the dark and profane humor.

Two films come to mind as video alternatives. Both are old and in black and white. But both are humorous and touching. They deserve a viewing.

One Foot In Heaven. (1941) Fredric March stars in this entertaining story of a minister and his family dealing with church difficulties toward the beginning of the 20th century. Funny and moving, with a great scene as the pastor goes to his first movie. Most people today dont know the name Fredric March. Too bad, he was one of the screens best actors.

Arsenic and Old Lace. Nobody does exasperation better than Cary Grant. In this dark, madcap comedy, he attempts to keep his two sweet old aunts from poisoning elderly gentlemen callers. Extremely entertaining, with Peter Lorre and Raymond Massey as two very spooky fellows.

I know, they are both from a far off time, but both are extremely entertaining and lack the vulgarity many of todays filmmakers deem necessary in comic movies.

Preview Reviewer: Phil Boatwright
Distributor: ThinkFilm