Frank Oz, the father of Fozzie Bear and Miss Piggy and the voice of Yoda, was able to make a movie once again. Delighted he started to work immediately. But sitting behind the kitchen table he came to the conclusion there was a serious problem: What should the movie be about? 

Not so long ago Oz made nice lovely movies and naturally he wanted to pool the same trick again. Staring at the white wall Oz hoped images would appear who shall give him the inspiration to come up with something original. Too bad. There were images allright, but a pornmovie could harm his good name. No, something else had to be figured out. After six cups of coffee and as much as cookies he came up with the following:

• A treasure that has to be stolen;
• An experienced criminal who does not want to be a criminal anymore, but wants to do one last job before he quits;
• A woman who loves the experienced criminal and wants him to stop immediately;
• A inexperienced smart young criminal who takes unseemingly risks;
• A forced cooperation between both criminals;
• A father figure who has problems and needs a favour;
• A friendship;
• A vote of confidence;
• A ringing the changes.

Brilliant? No.

Hopelessly clichéd? Yes.

Even worse: Frank Oz needed someone to work this all out(!)

"The Score" (2001) contains an awful predictable story. A Pokemon cartoon has got more original ideas.

Enough of this. Let’s go for the actors.

Robert de Niro is as great as always. Marlon Brando is almost as good as always. Edward Norton has never been bad. And Angela Bassett is always surprisingly good. The actors even make sure that the movie is actually worth while. The sober cameras also deserve compliments. So go on and see the movie if you love outstanding actors. But do not expect a film that overtakes or offers emotional depth.

-December 2001 -

Nick Wells   -   Robert de Niro

Jack Teller/Brian   -   Edward Norton

Max   -   Marlon Brando

Diane   -   Angela Bassett

  Director: Frank Oz

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