Copyright © 2003 by Tony Medley

How could a film starring Susan Sarandon, Goldie Hawn, and Geoffrey Rush go wrong?  The Banger Sisters answers that question. 

 In concept, it seems like an interesting idea.  Take Suzette (Goldie Hawn), a flower child groupie from the ‘60s and reunite her with her former groupie friend, Lavinia (Susan Sarandon), who has become a pillar-of-the-community housewife in Phoenix and see how she affects the lives of Lavinia and her family.  Unfortunately, writer-director Bob Dolman apparently was unable to think of any reason or dialogue that would show why Suzette should have any affect on Lavinia and her family whatever.  Suzette is just there.  And for no apparent reason, she affects everyone, even Harry (Geoffrey Rush), a failed writer she picks up in the desert. 

 In fact, she’s a 14-carat loser who hasn’t matured an iota since the ‘60s, who’s been fired after wasting her life away as a barmaid.  What we’re supposed to believe, I guess, is that Lavinia, who has turned her back on her days as a groupie, developed into a functioning adult, and become a respectable wife and mom, is the one who has taken the wrong road in life, rather than the wastrel, Suzette.  The idea is dubious, at best, and this movie isn’t even remotely convincing.

 Oh, because of the law of averages, there are a few humorous moments.  While Sarandon proves what an exceptional talent she is by rising above this vapid material, the generally capable Hawn is victimized by it.  Robin Thomas, as Lavinia’s befuddled husband, Raymond, adds some good comedic turns.  But, alas, Sarandon and Thomas are not enough to overcome the story and script.  The Banger Sisters is a major disappointment.

 The End

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