Bogus (1996): Dir: Norman Jewison / Cast: Whoopi Goldberg, Gerard Depardieu, Haley Joel Osment, Nancy Travis, Andrea Martin: Imaginary friends are common at a young age but the title of this film doesn't do it justice. Albert lost his mother in an accident and is left in the care of Whoopi Goldberg who claims to have no time for children. Soon Gerard Depardieu appears in the form of Bogus. He is fun and listens to him. This bewilders Goldberg who questions the boy's behavior after strange occurrences. Bogus is obviously there to unite the two. Not so much about imaginary friends as it is about recovering from loss but for something advertised as a comedy it plainly isn't very funny. Director Norman Jewison used these elements before in Moonstruck and Only You with fine visual elements. Goldberg holds her own in the role of caregiver unable or unwilling to participate but as formulas go she will let down her guard. As Bogus Depardieu proves to have great comic energy despite a role unworthy of his talent. Haley Joel Osment as Albert is the best casting, coping with loss using imagination and adapting to Goldberg. Nancy Travis plays his mother with an interesting back story but untimely death. While the visual elements are okay, perhaps parents should view it before making it a family night deal. Strong theme of childhood healing within a totally bogus screenplay. Score: 5 ½ / 10
Review of Bogus
