Peter Ranier's The Boss: Movie Review

`Lesson 5 Review Comparison Activity

The research database National Newspaper Core, hosting a detailed index of five widely-read newspapers nationwide, was used to locate a review of the movie, “The Boss.” Film critic and writer Peter Ranier of The Christian Science Monitor, indicates a tone of disappointment in his review of the movie. In the title alone, Ranier states the movie is “not worthy of star Melissa McCarthy,” implying the content of the movie does not reflect the talents of Ms. McCarthy. Additionally, Rainer implied the Girl Scouts organization “must have read the script” since the name of the group selling brownies to raise money did not have the words “girls” or “scouts” in their group name. In relation to context, Rainer’s
Hornaday states the movie’s “plot is predictably schematic” and involves McCarthy’s “signature lowbrow physical gags and breathtakingly blue dialogue.” Critical of McCarthy’s choice of movie roles, Hornaday noted McCarthy has “reverted to form, playing yet another selfish, cluelessly narcissistic character” in “The Boss.” Additional examples of McCarthy’s performance, and those of other actresses, were detailed in the context of the article which also showed a comparison of movie roles highlighting the capabilities of McCarthy’s performances. Supporting actress Kristin Bell’s role was described as “bland” while young protégé Eva Peterson provided a “commanding” performance as one of the girls’ group members. Hornaday praised McCarthy’s role in “The Spy” but reports throughout the article the continued raunchy and stale roles McCarthy continues to play. Though the Post’s article was negative of McCarthy’s distasteful roles, it provides a balanced review of the movie, comprehensive examples to give a solid understanding of the story line as well as giving the necessary details to the moviegoer such as