There was a major amount of media hype in Palm Springs prior to the world release of The Petersburg-Cannes Express here on March 6, 2003. Much of the hype was due to the fact that Palm Springs is trying to attract more film openings here due to our close proximity to Los Angeles, and our long history as a Hollywood hideaway. Our successful annual International Film Festival is doing much to change the way Palm Springs is viewed as a movie town.
Ten friends and I happily reserved our $50 tickets well in advance to this movie that was to be the directorial debut of long time producer John Daly. With John Daly's history of having produced such films as Falcon and the Snowman, Platoon, and The Last Emperor, there wasn't even a remote possibility in my mind that this wasn't going to be a sensational movie! Set in Petersburg, a period piece, and based upon a fine book; I knew that we were in for a very special cinematic experience. Nevertheless, ten minutes into the film proved my expectations to be wrongly anticipated.
Although the film is beautiful to look at and most of the cast is even quite likable, Daly is inevitably to blame for the films disastrous downfall. Daley's total lack of ability to give direction to his cast in this film leaves the audience with nothing at the end other than relieved that the film is over. But to make matters even worse, Daly just had to go and write the screenplay as well. The book that his screenplay is based upon could not possibly have been as boring as the film turned out being, or surely even Daley could not have originally realized it on film. Daley's screenplay and direction eluded proper and strong character development. Awkward and sometimes infantile dialog once again had us checking our wrist watches to see when this mess was going to be finished.
Mr. Daly, please stick to producing, and leave the very important issues of what actually makes a film work to people with talent and experience.
