04.02.16
Cheri has the trappings of a May December affair that starts off as a casual arrangement yet blossomed into intense feelings of love. Set during the Belle Epoque or the so-called "Beautiful Era" of France, one is treated to lavish production design and impressive wardrobes but more importantly, I was personally drawn because it had Michelle Pfeiffer and Kathy Bates in its cast. Pfeiffer shines as Lea, the courtesan and seductress while Bates was outstanding as Cheri/Fred's mother. Rupert Friend, himself also an acclaimed actor, took to his role as if it was second nature. Aside from the highly emotional scenes of Friend and Pfeiffer what I relished most were the scenes between Pfeiffer and Bates and how Bates can effectively deliver her lines wherein you can actually feel the dread each time she laughs. Her character's overwhelming sarcasm was well captured in this particular line intended for Pfeiffer, and to quote: "Don't you find now that the skin's a little less firm, it holds perfume so much better!"