Mad Money (2008): Dir: Callie Khori / Cast: Diane Keaton, Queen Latifah, Katie Holmes, Ted Danson, Roger Cross: Formula comedy about our constant strive for riches. When her husband is downsized, Diane Keaton is forced to work as a janitor at the bank. There she meets a single mother played by Queen Latifah and a young drug addict played by Katie Holmes. Together they devise a scheme to steal the money that is shredded at the end of the day. Setup opens with the conclusion, until becoming formula and applauding theft. Directed by Callie Khori who previously made the nitwit comedy The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. This is also about a small ensemble of women but funnier and much more likable. One element that succeeds is the casting. Keaton holds strong as a loyal house wife who does what she can to oppose the unjust against her family. Latifah has a conscience but she also wants the best for her son. Holmes steals moments as a drug addict who listens to her head phones too loud. Ted Danson as Keaton's husband is supportive despite losing his job. Roger Cross plays a security guard who catches them in the act but he is attracted to the Latifah character and has a change of heart. Conclusion gives the wrong message and the wrong reason. Yes, everyone needs to survive and provide for their family, but the message here is warped and demonstrate the down side of money. Score: 7 / 10
Review of Mad Money
