Great Film: Maverick
Vastly underrated, charming movie
As a kid, I used to watch reruns of the original "Maverick" -- and so I
looked forward to seeing this one when it came out in the theaters. I was
NOT disappointed! Mel Gibson's Maverick is a bit more goofy than James
Garner's, but is every bit as charming, sly, and entertaining. A number of
excellent cameos provide some comic relief, especially Danny Glover near the
beginning of the movie. But by far the best casting is reserved for the
original Maverick, James Garner, who is cast in a featured role, and who has
surprises in store for darn near everyone. Most movies remade from old TV
series ignore the stars that made them popular enough to BE remade -- kudos
to the producers of this film, who apparently know better.
Other roles are filled capably; the biggest surprise for me was Jodie
Foster, whom I normally dislike on screen. She is very impressive in a rare
comedic role, and thankfully discards her repetoire of facial tics for a
much more natural performance here. The plot is kept pretty simple until
near the end -- and the end has a great twist, which I won't divulge.
Suffice it to say that your time will be well spent, and you'll want to
revisit Maverick country more than once.
Cast
- Twitchy, Riverboat Poker Player played by Dan Hedaya
- Annabelle Bransford played by Jodie Foster
- Marshal Zane Cooper played by James Garner
- Bret Maverick played by Mel Gibson
- Angel played by Alfred Molina
- Poker Player (as Art La Fleur) played by Art Lafleur
- Joseph played by Graham Greene
