MovieChat Forums > Harlem Nights (1989) Discussion > Could use substantial editing

Could use substantial editing


This movie, running at almost 2 hours, could be made into a much more enjoyable, brisk comedy by liberally applying the editing scissors. I mean, there are a lot of pointlessly slow scenes that just keep dragging on forever. One of the most prominent examples is the pointless banter between Richie and Sunshine in a hotel room. That scene could be cut down to 10 - 15 seconds tops, and the movie wouldn't lose any of its charm. It would only gain in momentum.

There are many, many other quite pointless, dull and slow scenes that do this movie no good. They just weigh down otherwise hilarious and insanely weird scenes that keep us coming back to this movie. But I really dislike having to keep my finger on the fast forward button while I'm watching a movie. Too bad we're not allowed to remix and re-edit (for our personal viewing pleasure) the movies we purchase on DVD/Blu ray, as I think I could easily trim this sucker down to 80 minutes, 90 minutes max. Then it would be the real kick-a$$ roller coaster ride that would have me in stitches.

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