Herman U.S.A. (2001)

Average guys win out

Herman U.S.A. is a wonderful little film that made me smile and cheer for the average, hardworking, lonely man. While the actors are not models or coverboys, they won my heart and made me cheer for them loud and strong. If you like "The Full Monty" I think it's a good bet that you will like Herman USA. As a matter of fact, the two movies share two very similar scenes. (the football game and the men walking in shadow over a hill) One short comming of the film was the interracial story line. You never see that couple kissing or being romantic toward each other at all in the film, with the exception of a nuzzle in a church. The attraction they have for each other is very well played at their first meeting, but even when she leaves town, there isn't a farewell kiss or any indication that there had been anything intimate between them. Makes me wonder if the creators/producers were concerned about how an interracial couple would be viewed in certain areas and with certain people around the country. Even with that, the actors are likeable and the film is worth a look at, even if it is just once. February 24, 2008

Amazingly Enjoyable Movie

I was all ready for this to be a camp movie that was not very serious. In fact, this is a very serious and touching movie full of humor and real emotion. This movie will shock you with its unwillingness to offer cliches and easy explanations. Highlights are all of the lonely batchelor farmers (nod of the cap to Mr. Garrison Keillor) who find love in the most surprizing ways.
For example, the quiet but strong and intelligent farmer who meets up with a black chick from the South Side of Chicago. From what I just wrote, you would assume a cliched portrayal but in fact the actor who plays the farmer and even the one who plays the Chicago woman are both very sensitive and engaging.
Michael O'Keefe--known for the lead in the Caddyshack movie--is actually very likeable. This movie just impressed me so much because it did not simplify the issue or patronize. It really told a complex story of what would happen when a townful of lonely batchelors invites women to come meet and maybe get married. Just an all around movie that you will be glad you saw. August 23, 2007

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