'Heights' takes an intimate look at urban lives in New York. The movie centres around four characters: a passionate actress, a photographer and her fiancée and a struggling actor who moonlights as a waiter. Each of these characters are lost and isolated in a crowded New York. Jonathan and Isabel are engaged and only days away from getting married but, while on the surface everything appears to be okay, their relationship is very dysfunctional. Diana is a respected actress who is liked by everyone but she too craves for intimacy that she hits on pretty much anyone. The hardworking Alec is obviously struggling to become an actor in a city of struggling artistes yet he manages to get through the day while being in a secret relationship. Amy Fox has done a fine job in the writing department. The film is based on her play and the subtle way in which she peels the layers of each character comes across very well on camera. The cinematography is superb as it captures the shots very photogenically. Terrio clearly knows how to select the right locations and to present them on screen. 'Heights' also highlights the marvelous performances of its four leads. I've never particularly thought of Glenn Close as hot but here she looks absolutely stunning. Her nuanced portrayal of Diana is a knockout. Elizabeth Banks is terrific as she downplays Isabel while James Marsden is outstanding as the troubled and conflicted Jonathan. Jesse Bradford is notable in a tricky role that is a surprise element to the story. 'Heights' may not be everybody's cup of tea but it is an absorbing human drama for those who are looking for something more than mere entertainment. It is a little slow in the beginning but as we know more about the characters, we feel more involved.
