Review of Ask the Dust (2006) by Sums I — 11 Sep 2011

Interesting, but mostly forgettable. Hayek and Farrell both do an admirable job portraying a pained courtship of mutual affection but open hostility. Neither one wants to be the "nice guy", but they also feel frustrated with why they treat each other so poorly considering their obvious affections.

Los Angeles during the Great Depression is fascinating and well done. I find the economics also enjoyable, where a nickel buys a cup of coffee, and rent is $10 a month. If nothing else, the movie gives us a clear glimpse of what things might have been like in that era.

I don't think the chemistry between the two was quite right... the sparring sure fit, but it never felt like a smoldering going on behind those mean words. Perhaps Hayek has too strong of a sex appeal and simply outmatches Colin.... dunno, that's one for the ladies to answer.

This should have some appeal to writers and romantics, but it's a slow starter and nothing earth shattering. Quaking, yes... but not shattering. (Inside movie joke).