Anywhere but Here

Director:

Wayne Wang

Writer:

Alvin Sargent

Fox 2000; PG-13; 113 minutes

Release:

11/99

Cast:

Susan Sarandon, Natalie Portman

Depending on what galaxy you're from, Natalie Portman is either the princess saving the world from Phantom Menace or a Harvard freshman who happens to be a talented actress. Yes, she's ditched the funky headgear and now occupies the emotional center of Wayne Wang's latest movie.

Portman plays Ann, no-nonsense daughter to selfishly immature and spunkily ambitious Adele August (Susan Sarandon). Adele's relocating them to Hollywood in a frantic attempt to make something of herself.

Anywhere but Here breaks no new ground, but it shows how satisfying a well-acted character drama can be. Portman holds her own with Sarandon, as both give impressive performances. Mid-life attempts at revival are nicely juxtaposed by the young woman's coming of age. Wang (The Joy Luck Club) directs with a soft, steady touch.