The Paper

Written by: The Koepp brothers Starring: Michael Keaton, Marisa Tomei, Glenn Close, Robert Duvall, Randy Quaid, Jason Alexander, Spalding Gray

Top notch Hollywood entertainment, and fun all the way. The big cast of pros hits all the right notes, and Keaton in particular is terrific. The part is tailor made for him and he really invests it with manic energy; he really seems like a news guy! The script, which covers 24 hours in the life of a New York tabloid, is fast and funny and generally avoids dead space and mush. There are some hilarious lines. Howard directs with a great deal of confidence; he really makes the picture crackle. Unlike "Backdraft," when he just moved the camera around for effect, his style here actually enhances the story. I guess he's getting better, and he had a better script. This picture won't change anyone's life, but it does make for a good night out, and there is something to be said for that. (3/26/94)