Angus MacLachlan

CHICAGO – There was a time when the union of two actors as accomplished as Robert De Niro and Edward Norton would make movie news headlines. And, to be fair, John Curran’s “Stone” was chosen to open the Chicago Internation Film Festival in large part due to the pedigree of its stars. But viewers are smarter than they used to be. They know now that a movie’s success is not solely dependent on the talent of its leads. And while De Niro and Norton are two of our best actors (and they are amply supported by two great female turns as well), “Stone” just doesn’t work.

CHICAGO – Ed Norton and Robert De Niro used to be two of the most consistent actors alive, both with streaks of amazing, Oscar-nominated films that guarantee them places in the history books.

CHICAGO – Many filmmakers speak of going against the grain. By virtue of desiring to take a road less traveled, though, often you’re actually going with the same grain as everyone else who wants to be different.

CHICAGO – Edward Norton was the hottest ticket in town (along with President Barack Obama’s visit to Chicago) on Thursday night for the opening-day screening of his new film “Stone” at the 2010 Chicago International Film Festival.

CHICAGO – In this edition of HollywoodChicago.com Hookup: Film, we have 2 admit-two balcony tickets up for grabs for the opening night of the 2010 Chicago International Film Festival to see the new Edward Norton and Robert De Niro film “Stone”!