THE INFORMANT

What the hell was that?

I saw the previews of “The Informant,” Steven Soderbergh’s new movie, and thought, “What the hell was that?” Thought I’d see the movie anyway, and that’s still what I’m saying.

I’ll save you the $10. It’s about a compulsive liar and bipolar worker in a major corporation who blows a whistle. Sorta.

And I think that’s the problem I have with the movie. I have a very low view (and/or tolerance) of liars in my life. After seeing this movie, I’m really left with the feeling that I’ve been lied to by the director. It’s not a pleasant sensation.

Mind you, I can appreciate that Matt Damon, whom I normally hate in movies is far enough outside of his comfort zone that I can actually enjoy his acting. I can appreciate the kitschy, piano-y score by Marvin Hamlisch. And the bouncy 60s feel of the typography and the bright colors at the beginning.

I loved the familiar comedy cast of characters who liven up the proceedings: from both of the Smothers Brothers (separately) to Ann Cusack to Joel McHale to Melanie Lynsky to Scott Bakula to Clancy Brown to Tony Hale.

Somewhat interesting is Damon’s character’s slow descent into the web he’s weaving, really only indicated by color and sound, or lack thereof. Directorially, it’s well-presented, but the subject matter and context are not something I really appreciate being subjected to.

A seriously big SKIP on this one.