I've always been a huge fan of dramatic biopics, that illustrate a historical setting of a cultural legacy. Films such as Aviator, Amadeus, and Ray to name a few of my favorites. It's even better when these biopics include a well-respected director and lead actor. For the film, J. Edgar, the focus was on the life of the obsessive FBI director, J. Edgar Hoover. As the founder of the FBI, he was one of the most powerful men in the country, with a career ranging over 50 years. With Clint Eastwood directing and Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role I thought this film would be a sure success. I just saw it this past Friday in Wisconsin and must sadly give this film some mixed reviews.
The subject matter is classic Hollywood material, a behind-the-scenes look at a mysterious and powerful American icon. In this regard, the film succeeds in opening up some unusual character flaws of Mr. J. Edgar Hoover. Such as living with his mother, his political rivals, and a homosexual attraction to his assistant deputy Cylde Tolson, played quite well by Armie Hammer (The Social Network). The screenplay was written by Dustin Lance Black, who won an Oscar for his writing, in Milk. I must say however, that his success didn't quite carry over to this film, and the storyline was without question the greatest flaw in this film.
As for the lead role however, Leonardo DiCaprio, nailed it once again, successfully playing both a young and an old J. Edgar Hoover. DiCaprio brought forth some of his usual character traits of determination, obsession, and inner-struggle. He also added an excellent New Jersey accent, with an unrecognizable embodiment of an older man. He somewhat carried this movie, and should no doubt be considered for Academy contention. Props should also go out to the make-up department in this film.
Yet as for directing, Clint Eastwood finally brought an end to his winning streak of powerful dramas, and delivered quite a dud with this film. The movie started off very interesting, depicting J. Edgar's passion for the job, his battle against Communism, and his rise to the top. Yet once Hoover reached the top, the story suddenly turned to personal drama. It put far too much emphasis on the Lindbergh case and his love with Clyde Tolson, that ultimately made the story very boring towards the end. If you like History as much as I do, you might enjoy this movie for it's information, yet don't expect much in the way of a storyline.
As for the lead role however, Leonardo DiCaprio, nailed it once again, successfully playing both a young and an old J. Edgar Hoover. DiCaprio brought forth some of his usual character traits of determination, obsession, and inner-struggle. He also added an excellent New Jersey accent, with an unrecognizable embodiment of an older man. He somewhat carried this movie, and should no doubt be considered for Academy contention. Props should also go out to the make-up department in this film.
Yet as for directing, Clint Eastwood finally brought an end to his winning streak of powerful dramas, and delivered quite a dud with this film. The movie started off very interesting, depicting J. Edgar's passion for the job, his battle against Communism, and his rise to the top. Yet once Hoover reached the top, the story suddenly turned to personal drama. It put far too much emphasis on the Lindbergh case and his love with Clyde Tolson, that ultimately made the story very boring towards the end. If you like History as much as I do, you might enjoy this movie for it's information, yet don't expect much in the way of a storyline.
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