Bugs: A Review of New Ashley Judd Movie

She worked in a lesbian bar and seemed content with snorting a line or two with her friend, until he came. He was quiet and politely odd. Two awkward strangers, abandoned by their mutual friend, and left to make conversation, starts the drama rolling. She had a past that she didn't choose to share, but he did, too. Eventually, they merged as one.

Bugs is a bit bizarre, but nonetheless, high-drama. Ashley Judd brings to life a painful and pathetic woman, just trying to cope with life. The high energy that she puts into her acting leaves you exhausted, but wanting more. She brought to life a role that seemed impossible, yet you didn't care because she made it true.

Her counterpart Michael Shannon irritated me a bit in the beginning. I presume the director wanted him to be the shy and retiring country bumpkin style hero. Little by little he became more immersed in the drama and role that turned him into the dominant character of the two. His hidden brilliance came to light at the end.

Harry Connick Jr. did a wonderful job in his role as the ass of an ex-husband. He was rude, obscene, controlling, and just downright mean. When I first saw him on the screen I worried. Would I continue to see the lighthearted man that I witnessed on "Will and Grace"? He mastered his role for within minutes I was referring to him as "that son-of-a-b@#ch". He played the cunning, abusive ex with great style.

The director, William Friedkin, did wonders with the use of the fan, helicopter noises, and lighting to bring fear into the hearts of those that watched. While I was on pins and needles, I was not crazy about the end but do admit that it left me with a lot to think about. So, if a movie isn't escapism, then it should be thought provoking. Discussing what the ending meant created quite a stir in the household. My background in psych would not allow me to come to the same conclusion as my life partner, and for once I was on the side that it was a government plot.