Watch CBS News

Jan Wahl Movie Review: 'Salvation Boulevard'

(KCBS) - KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews the new film, 'Salvation Boulevard,' a religious satire starring Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly, and Marisa Tomei.

Salvation Boulevard (not rated)

One of the all-time great political satires is Wag the Dog. The writer of that source material is the same as this religious satire story: Larry Beinhart. The film tells the tale of a charismatic preacher who has captivated a small American town with his charm, promotion and salesmanship. He's promised them all a sweet real estate deal and all goes well until one of his flock (a former deadhead turned zealot) witnesses a sinful act by the preacher himself. Everyone's world is turned upside down. The good news is that two of my favorite actors star: Pierce Brosnan and Greg Kinnear. The great Ed Harris shows up (wish there were more scenes with him) to lend gravitas, and Jennifer Connelly shows a gift for comedy as a militantly devout wife. Bad news is that the film loses its way about two thirds of the way through, becoming completely silly. As great as the premise and acting is, this last part of the film ruins what came before. Two and a half hats for some good ideas and performances, but ultimately fine for DVD.

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl's movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.