Carrying the same tone and formula of the popular HBO television show, Sex and the City sells itself perfectly as it provides the perfect blend of sex, nudity, vulgar language and romance to please even the most die-hard fans.
Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda have been friends for years. Playing each other's confidants in the happening metropolitan known as New York City, the four girls never seem to go anywhere without each other. Yet, over the years each has settled down and created a home with the man of their dreams "“ each except for Ms. Carrie Bradshaw. But all that is about to change. After purchasing a miraculous penthouse overlooking Manhattan, Carrie and her man, Mr. Big, ultimately decide that walking down the aisle is the best next move. But like so many times before, a series of mishaps and blunders leads to a rocky journey for the couple, one that could put an end to their ten year relationship for good.
Though I never watched the television show when it aired on HBO, I will admit to
watching the seasons on DVD before venturing out to see the film. And though a quick intense look into the lives of the four girl's was revealed as an introduction to the film, I must say that the show better prepared me for what I was about to see on screen.
From the crude language to the plagued relationships and even a crap your pants experience, everything that helped make this show a hit was resurrected and upgraded for the film. And with every cast member back from the series, I have to give props to those behind the film for creating such a stellar move from the small to the big screen.
Picking up right where they left off, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristen Davis and Cynthia Nixon bring the dynamic foursome back and in high fashion. Carrying on conversations as if no time has passed, the ladies are able to successfully sell their friendship and reliance on one another, proving that chemistry never dies.
In addition, the series adds a new character in Louise, Carrie Bradshaw's personal assistant. Played by Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls), Louise is brought to life through a balanced mix of comedy and dating drama, taking Carrie back several years to when she first moved to the big city. Their relationship is vital to Carrie's very existence and ultimately allows Carrie to reach out and overcome one of her biggest fears, her man.
While they might be missed by the common eye, the fashion and dialogue served as a crucial 'character' within the film. Never sporting the same outfit or pair of shoes twice, the girls and their friends showcase some of the most expensive and glamorous ensembles to ever make it on the big screen. Using the outfits for more than just coverings, each piece of attire helps to distinguish and accurately reveal each character's personality and tendencies. And with labels becoming more and more important in today's high society, it is no wonder that every big designer and store found their way into the film.
However, for all the things that the film did right, there were still some instances where I felt it lagged.
For one, the narration that flowed throughout the entire film by lead character Carrie Bradshaw was a little too much. Sure the show relied on her constant information; however, during a two and a half hour film, the narration became overbearing and tended to lose its edge.
In addition, I felt that the overall, the story lacked any real progression from the show. Sure new events happen and the four leading ladies learn valuable life lessons during the two and a half hours on screen; however, I felt that more could have been done.
Putting those two minor complaints aside, I do have to admit that the film was fun and enjoyable. But I must warn you, if you haven't seen the show or never found the show appealing, you might be lost and uninterested. The film was made as a tribute to the show's long withstanding viewers. And luckily for those fans, the film delivers in all the right ways!
