Bobby Dorfman has had it with the hum-drum family business in New York in the 1930’s. He packs up and “goes west, young man” and begs his hot-shot movie guru brother Phil (Steve Carell) for a job. Phil puts him on as a messenger boy.
The soft spoken Dorfman (Jesse Eisenberg) falls instantly in love with Vonnie (Kristen Stewart), Phil’s secretary, also his mistress. From here out the love triangle knits together the drama for the rest of the film.
Dorfman and Vonnie become star crossed lovers. She ultimately chooses to stick with Phil. Dorfman finds Veronica (Blake Lively).
Eisenberg’s adventures carry the rest of the show. He becomes transformed (note how his hair cut changes) to a raconteur in New York running his brothers night club. Dorfman and Vonnie meet one last time.
Stewart as the ‘femme fatal’ seems out of place since she has neither the looks nor vivaciousness to command her adoration. Best performer is Steve Carell. Best scene is when Phil arranges a hooker Candy (Anna Camp) for recreation with Dorfman.
This is a Woody Allen show. Despite his checkered past, he can still make decent movies. While not up to “Blue Jasmine” or “Midnight in Paris,” it is entertaining. It’s an Art Film: Full of interesting intrigue, but where no one ends up happy.
“Café Society” is currently running at the Rialto Theater in The Villages.
Jack Petro reviews movies for Villages-News.com
