The Birdcage

So what if you've already seen the French version (ages ago)? You haven't seen Robin Williams as "straight" man Armand or gotten a gander of Nathan Lane as Albert. A gay romp, to say the least. Director Mike Nichols handles this remake of the 1978 comedy beautifully and with respect. Teaming his talents with ex-sidekick Elaine May (as scriptwriter) has produced a delicious treat performed by a top notch cast. Special mention for Gene Hackman, as the prospective father-in-law of Armand's son Val, whose role has been extensively embellished from the original. Not easy to portray a deadbeat convincingly with all that madness going on around you.