Obscure Beauty: Smooth Talk (1985)

A. FRIEND Recommended It

A Signature Distraction

Anyone still reading Club Silencio knows that I (in)frequently contribute to Film Experience a series called "Signatures:" my most beloved actresses momentarily captured in awkward still photos and overindulgent praise. If I were to write a "Signatures" on myself, it would be that I laugh in the face of being prolific, and that my readers are lovely, patient and/or bored.

Here's my latest output/distraction, and look forward to more Defensive Cinema and Cult Oddities in the coming week!

• Patricia Clarkson is one of the finest supporting actresses alive, so why is she never supportive?

• Catherine Keener says "fuck off" in the most charming way imaginable.

• Uma Thurman is out for blood in the most charming way imaginable.

• (Literally) brace yourselves for the bitter comedy stylings of Lisa Kudrow!

• Laura Dern is our guiding light through the darkness of monogamy, prostitution and Nicolas Cage.

Lip Service to Laura Dern

Laura Dern's face is one of the most beautiful, uniquely expressive in the business. Does anyone - can anyone - do a crying scene quite like her? I mean besides Gumby or Mr. Bill. Perhaps Wallace if he ever lost Gromit...


The only explanation really is that Laura Dern is molded of clay. When things in her films inevitably take a downward turn, so does Laura'a mouth -- like a lipstick rubber band ready to snap. Laura Dern's always been an actress capable of turning my frown upside down. Now if only she could do the same for herself and not lose an eye.