In Contention

Crush

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Hope DavisAlright, I’ve got to confess an undying love here and now, a lingering sort of obsessive interest, both cerebral and, of course, physical, in an actress that can do no wrong.  Ever.  I’m talking to you, Hope Davis.

There, I said it.  Sure, you’re 45 (as of Monday, so Happy Birthday) and I’m 27, plus, you’re married with children.  So running off with some silly blogger is probably not your cup of tea.  I get it.  But now you know.  Just consider it.

In all seriousness, though, I thought Davis and her trademark comedic timing pitch-perfect in the New York production of “God of Carnage,” which I saw earlier this evening after missing the Ralph Fiennes-starring London leg last summer.  Marcia Gay Harden was equally entertaining and James Gandolfini really sold the money lines in an intriguing performance.  Jeff Daniels was perhaps a tad histrionic, but I couldn’t take my eyes off Davis.  And even though I’ve always been something of a fan of her decidedly accomplished work, it didn’t quite hit me until tonight’s show just how much of an under-appreciated talent she continues to be.

And to circle it back, am I alone in thinking she’s a total fox?  Maybe it’s just a crush.

Comments

12 responses to “Crush”

  1. The InSneider Avatar

    I’m not a die-hard but there IS something very sexy about her — I think it’s because she radiates intelligence, intelligence is power, and power is sexy. What do you think?

  2. John K Avatar

    There was a period of time in the late 90’s – i.e. after I first saw “Next Stop Wonderland” (dear lord, she was sexy in that movie) – when I would have wholeheartedly agreed with you. Not that she isn’t still attractive now, but I will admit that I have moved on since then.

    That being said, I remember a previous post about the best actors/actresses currently working who have yet to get an Oscar nomination. She’s certainly in the top ten.

  3. Neel Mehta Avatar

    While maybe deserving of awards attention, I kind of like the fact that she remains relatively anonymous, basking in the adoration of the select few. (She does have a Golden Globe nom.)

    Even when she’s serious, she’s just so much fun. Her very presence in a movie, no matter how small the role, is going to bring something to the table.

    May I suggest a double feature of MUMFORD and CHARLIE BARTLETT? Similar themes, and she’s in both.

  4. Jonathan Spuij Avatar

    Did your date ditch you Kris?

  5. Guy Lodge Avatar

    No, I totally get where you’re coming from on this, Kris. As Jeff said above, the aura of intelligence is a major factor, but there’s a kind of eccentricity there that’s very appealing.

    It’s gotta be Catherine Keener for me, though.

  6. The Other Ryan Avatar
    The Other Ryan

    I’m in love with her, too. Ever since American Splendor. Glad to see I’m not the only one who appreciates her.

  7. Rob Scheer Avatar
    Rob Scheer

    So glad you caught “God of Carnage” while in town! My apartment’s about 200 feet from the theater, and it almost feels like a tease that it’s so close, yet I CAN’T just go see it every night.

    Totally agree with you about Davis in it though — I never knew her and Marcia Gay Harden could be so fucking funny.

  8. Scott Ward Avatar
    Scott Ward

    Catherine Keener! Right on Guy!

  9. Kristopher Tapley Avatar

    Jesus, Rob, you must be rolling in it.

  10. Robert Hamer Avatar
    Robert Hamer

    Harvey Pekar’s wife from American Splendor? Don’t really see the appeal, but different strokes, I guess…

  11. Walter Avatar

    Mmm…yeah, I’ll go with you on this one. Strangely enough, it was Infamous that made me take notice. She’s not my Number One Lady (that’s Drew Barrymore), but I wouldn’t say no.

  12. JF Avatar
    JF

    yep, ‘Next Stop Wonderland’ sold me on her and i’ve been on that (pardon the pun) train of thought ever since.