Opening like a charming and lightweight Irish comedy, A Man of No Importance eventually proves to be more of a pathos-laden drama. Along the way however, it never fails of be warm, with Albert Finney a joy as the kind yet internally tortured ticket collector Alfie, who is inspired to mount a production of Salome, by his idol Oscar Wilde. Throughout the film we are treated not only to Finney, but also loveley turns by Tara Fitzgerald as Alfie's idealised Princess Salome, and Rufus Sewell as the bus driver, dubbed "Bosie," the object of ALfie's unrequited affections. The story could deteriorate into a weepy drama, but it never does, and the conclusion, although sad, is somewhat life-affirming. A great way to spend an evening.

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importance is subjective Jun 16 2001

By Peter Shelley

Format:VHS Tape

This debut from Suri Krishnamma is quite wonderful. Set in Dublin in 1963, it opens with Eartha Kitt singing "Let's Do it" and Albert Finney reading Oscar Wilde, so we know something particular is in the wind. Finney is a bus conductor who is inspired to mount a production of Salome after meeting Tara Fitzgerald. The film shows the rehearsals in the local church hall, and slowly reveals Finney's closeted sexual preference, secretly in love with someone he calls his "Bosie". What is interesting is the Vertigo relationship that develops between Finney and Fitzgerald. As her director, he recreates her the way he wishes to see her, which can be a common dynamic between certain men and the women they are obsessed with, and the situation is all the more resonant since Fitzgerald is so touching. Time allows the audience to like Finney, since at first his accent and face are off-putting. It seems he is trying too hard, but by the time he is dressed as flamboyantly as Wilde, we are won over. Brenda Fricker plays Finney's sister and is funny, but Rufus Sewell as the bus driver is unfortunately Method-y. However Krishnamma wisely removes him for a time and when he returns, we have Finney's idiot grin of happiness as a payoff.

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brilliant film Feb 3 2000

By charles

Format:VHS Tape

This film is a truly unique and enchanting experience. From the Wilde poem, "The Harlot's House" recited by Alfie(Albert Finney)to his bus passengers to Alfie's sweet and kind obsession with Wilde by dressing like him when he goes out to the bar, you will be delighted by the deep sensitivity of Finney to the role. The video is one I watched several times and enjoyed each time. It is absorbing, funny, tender and best of all respectful to Oscar Wilde.

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