Benny and Joon (1993)

Rarely does a film come along that you remember as vividly as this. I think most everyone would enjoy this film, it has a most excellent cast and the story is not the norm. If you enjoy romantic comedies with a soul and purpose then this one will surely get your attention. It was directed by Canadian director Jeremiah S. Chechik. He really captured the story on screen, and was able to do something special with it. The story was written by Barry Berman and Lesley McNeil. Barry Berman was responsible for the screenplay.

I’m sure it didn’t hurt to work with the likes of Johnny Depp as Sam who really stands out in this performance. His character is a Buster Keaton fan with admiration for Charlie Chaplin as well. It becomes obvious in a number of scenes, as they are a tribute to both of the legendary entertainers.  His character is off the wall yet quite. He immediately bonds with Juniper ‘Joon’ Pearl played by the very talented Mary Stuart Masterson. Aidan Quinn plays her brother Benjamin ‘Benny’ Pearl and is really great in the role trying to look out for her best interests; he works as an auto mechanic while trying to hold his life together. It was brilliant casting these two as brother and sister together.

There are more fine actors in this such as Julianne Moore as Ruthie, Oliver Platt as Eric, CCH Pounder as Dr. Garvey, Dan Hedaya is Thomas, Joe Grifasi is Mike, Liane Alexandra Curtis is Claudia, Eileen Ryan is Mrs. Smail, and William H. Macy is Randy Burch.

I think this film includes a number of down to earth moments, yet they are bitter sweet. The story takes place mostly at the home of the Pearls. It is a typical working class environment but nothing like your everyday family life. These two siblings are very close yet far apart in many other ways. Juniper ‘Joon’ Pearl is insane by medical diagnoses she suffers from a mental illness. When Johnny Depp’s character Sam enters their lives, it is an attraction that leads to a deep misfit love and affection between them.

The song used for this film “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” performed by the Scottish band which is composed of two twin brothers Charlie and Craig Reid. Their song went on to become an international hit. Benny and Joon should appeal to just about everyone’s mood as it has various layers of emotions mixed inside of it. I definitely recommend this to those who are seeking something a bit different. It still remains to be strongly entertaining film. Do yourself a favor and watch this one.