This is a dark film with a somewhat comedic undercurrent. This is also notable for being a film that opened during the advent of post Altman/Cassavettes independent film (just one year before Sex, Lies, and Videotape, the indie darling that revitalized the movement) and it's a strong film even with its somewhat homespun theme. The highlight of this movie is actor John Glover's performance (who plays Lionel Luther in TVs "Smallville"). It's purely a stagework performance -- annuciating parables, Smiling jovially when giving bad news, and shelling out enormous body language. It's also a characterization with heart with sternness but never disparaging. This is very admirable work by Glover who really should have been nominated for an Oscar. Also Kudos to the director, Keith Gordon (who you may remember, played Rodney Dangerfield's rebellious son in "Back to School") plays Peter Gabriel's, "We Do What We're Told" at just the right moment, among other fine directorial attributes.
Review of The Chocolate War
