Maggie Moore(s) – A Tribeca Festival Review

In the radiant realm of cinematic endeavors, “Maggie Moore(s)” emerges as a small-town mystery that interlocks intrigue with a dash of romance. The film is orchestrated under the leadership of John Slattery, while the screenplay is the fruit of the labor of Paul Bernbaum, a screenwriter whose quill boasts of venerability.

The film unspools with Jon Hamm adorning the mantle of the bereaved Police Chief Jordan Sanders, whose brooding persona is delicately countered by his rapier-witted deputy, Reddy. The latter, tangled with a tinge of sarcasm, is masterfully portrayed by Nick Mohammed, who has already carved a niche for himself in “Ted Lasso.” Together, they are plunged into the maelstrom of solving the confounding mystery revolving around the unnerving demise of two women named Maggie Moore in a sleepy Arizona hamlet within a hairbreadth of a week.

Amidst the whirlwind of his investigations, Chief Sanders’ path intertwines with one of the ill-fated Maggies’ neighbors, Rita, who is brought to life with verve by the inimitable Tina Fey. Rita becomes the catalyst for a reawakening of Sanders’ long-stifled romantic inclinations.

“Maggie Moore(s)” is tinged with an effervescent charm catalyzed by the flirtatious rapport between Jordan and Rita. However, one must lament the lack of depth accorded to Hamm’s character, who, though genial, is nestled in an unyielding demeanor reflective of a staunch reluctance to evolve. On the other hand, Rita teeters on the precipice of being an enigma, with her characterization being whisper-thin.

Despite the somewhat parched landscape of their characters, Hamm and Fey imbue the screen with their infectious likability. The alchemy between them is palpable as they indulge in verbal repartee and exchange glances that seem to hunger for more.

In essence, “Maggie Moore(s)” is a tapestry woven with threads of mystery and romance, though somewhat frayed in character development. The allure of the lead duo ensures that this cinematic sojourn remains engaging, and perhaps it leaves the discerning viewer yearning for a tad more substance amidst the effervescent charm.