It’s hard to say where “Admission” (directed by Paul Eitz) goes wrong. On paper, it looks great.
The story is good. Based on the novel of the same name by Jean Hanff Korelitz, “Admission” tells the story of Portia Nathan (Tina Fey), an admissions officer for Princeton University. Nathan’s seemingly perfect, simple life is turned upside down when a series of unfortunate events leads to her finding a prodigy (Nat Wolff) who she thinks is her son she gave up for adoption 18 years earlier.
It’s a delightfully simple complex story. It’s a little messy, but that’s life.
It also has a good cast. Tina Fey is one of the greatest comediennes of our time. Paul Rudd also has a strong track record for making us laugh. And Lily Tomlin as the crazy but lovable mother, well, how could that be anything but awesome.
In theory, “Admission” should be a sweet, small film. But it lacks what can only be described as spark.
One character very aptly describes Fey’s character as boring. It may seem harsh, but it’s true. There’s no real connection made with the characters.
The film never really feels like it gets off the ground. Both the drama and comedy seem half-hearted.
Comedy and drama can work very well together, but in this case it comes across as awkward and sad.
It might be a case of identity crisis. This confused film couldn’t decide if it was a big laughs comedy or a witty dramedy.
You end up feeling bad, for the characters, but not out of sympathy or empathy. You just feel bad, and find yourself wondering — where did “Admission” go wrong?
…I’m still not sure.
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…just for fun:
