Diner (1982) Reviews

Diner (1982)
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Writer-director Barry Levinson's autobiographical first feature fondly remembers his Baltimore youth. It's late 1959, and six guys in their early twenties are stumbling into adulthood, alternating responsibility with carefree time at their local diner. The story centers on the return from college of Billy (Tim Daly) to serve as best man at the wedding of his pal Eddie (Steve Guttenberg). Billy is consumed by a confusing relationship with a close female friend, while Eddie still lives at home, preparing a football trivia test for his fiancée and vowing to cancel the wedding if she fails. Other characters woven into the narrative include Boogie (Mickey Rourke), a womanizer with a gambling problem, and Shrevie (Daniel Stern), a music addict with a troubled marriage. Diner became known for its bittersweet comic screenplay and its remarkable cast, which also included Paul Reiser, Kevin Bacon, and Ellen Barkin. In order to capture the loose, laid-back dialogue of the diner scenes, Levinson directed them last, so that the actors would be more comfortable with each other. Diner was the first part of Levinson's "Baltimore Trilogy," followed by Tin Men (1987) and Avalon (1990). ~ Norm Schrager, Rovi

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Starring:
Tim DalySteve Guttenberg, (more)
Director(s):
Barry Levinson
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R
Format(s):
DVD  | Digital SD & HD
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Average Ratings

(14 member reviews)  


Member Reviews


Lauren D.

I definitely think this was a bit overrated. I hear a lot of throwbacks to Diner, but I think it's just because it had a lot of notable actors and the movie wasn't bad. It also wasn't the classic I thought it would be, although I thought Mickey Rourke had a great character. This film and each character had so much potential, but none of it was delved into deep enough for me to get attached.

Yes   |   No


James O.

The writing was the best part of the film - something that is not seen too often these days - great great film for those who like to get into characters and dialogue. Must see if you do! The acting is great yes - a must see!

Yes   |   No


Amy L.

I don't care what anyone else thinks... I loved it... and thats all I really care about. I just saw this for the first time in June 2009. I enjoyed the story and the characters, as well as the strange humor involved (The Colts, the whole 'popcorn' scene, etc.) I guess it isn't for everyone, but I'm really into 50's culture, so I enjoyed it.

Yes   |   No


Donna S.

I felt this movie was way overrated. The characters were unlikeable and not easy to sympathize with, particularly Steve Gutenburg's character. Kevin Bacon was the saving grace in this film.

Yes   |   No


Dana F.

It was fun to see the younger versions of these actors. I don't remember hearing of the movie when it came out. It had funny moments, definitely, but a little slow moving at times. Not a bad way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Yes   |   No


Raymond L.

well done, anyone over 50 should be able to relate to it

Yes   |   No


ROBERT R.

Movie ok! Could hav been better w some such good actors!! Hope next movie is better!! thanx anyway!!!

Yes   |   No


David J.

To enjoy this movie you must be a fan of the time period; You get Levinson and the great casting in it's infancy..This was one of Mickey's best performances and you also catch Stern; who early in his career was a very good actor before he was demeaned in home alone..My only gripe is they didn't take full advantage of the music that was available..

Yes   |   No


Ted S.

.

Yes   |   No


Allan S.

Notable actors, very early in their careers. That's about the only thing going in this movie that moves at a snail's pace --- and never really gets off the ground. Plot??? Interaction between characters that you never really care about. Avoid this one like the plague!!

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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    Member Reviews
     
    Lauren D.

    I definitely think this was a bit overrated. I hear a lot of throwbacks to Diner, but I think it's just because it had a lot of notable actors and the movie wasn't bad. It also wasn't the classic I thought it would be, although I thought Mickey Rourke had a great character. This film and each character had so much potential, but none of it was delved into deep enough for me to get attached.

    Yes   |   No

     
    James O.

    The writing was the best part of the film - something that is not seen too often these days - great great film for those who like to get into characters and dialogue. Must see if you do! The acting is great yes - a must see!

    Yes   |   No

     
    Amy L.

    I don't care what anyone else thinks... I loved it... and thats all I really care about. I just saw this for the first time in June 2009. I enjoyed the story and the characters, as well as the strange humor involved (The Colts, the whole 'popcorn' scene, etc.) I guess it isn't for everyone, but I'm really into 50's culture, so I enjoyed it.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Read All 14 Reviews