The Bodyguard
★ ★
The Bodyguard is a bad movie disguised as a good movie because of its stars, but more importantly, the soundtrack. I thought that since The Bodyguard was celebrating its 30th anniversary it was time for me to watch this beloved film. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised that a movie called The Bodyguard would solely be told through the perspective of Kevin Costner's character, but I thought that there was a lack of balance between the characters. I was looking for a balance like you get with A Star is Born. There is way more Frank Farmer in this movie than there is Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston), which in turn makes this story told entirely told through the male gaze. I was shocked to discover that this script was penned by the great Lawrence Kasdan because Whitney Houston is never allowed to give any depth to her character. Instead, she is constantly used as a prop to propel Costner's narrative arc. I never bought into their love for one another because the chemistry between the two is nonexistent.
Of course, the music is amazing. I'm firing up the soundtrack as soon as I finish this review. I was surprised by how many songs I actually knew from this movie and Whitney Houston's voice never fails to be stunning. As an actress, you can see her struggling to keep up, but I would also if my first major role was a character who is nominated for an Oscar.
The Bodyguard is not completely an unwatchable film. It's not close to being the worst movie ever, but I kept finding myself laughing at the scenarios and the character's motives. It's fun to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the entertainment industry, but besides that and the soundtrack, this has to be one of the weaker romantic movies I've ever seen. I usually don't say this, but I would love to see this movie remade with a different script or better yet, a different perspective. But somehow the legacy of Houston and this soundtrack seems untouchable.
