Actually, I rather liked the original title of "California Curse" for this film as it delivers a much more symbolic weight to the morality of the story. This little gem is certainly not a true story. In fact, it comes from the whispers of movie legend originally told to Bogdonovich by Orson Welles. However, some of the reviews here (which sound as if there are still paid Hearst employees around) are missing the point that this is based on a play by Steven Peros. Criticism based on the legend aspect of the film is like knocking Amadeus because it is historically inaccurate. The main reality we should be concerned with here is does this film tell a fine tail weaved around splendid acting and highly competent directing?
Hell Yes! Besides anyone doubting the "realities" of the behavior of powerful men such as W.R. Hearst to control others lives thru intimidation or even murder are living in a box. In fact, the film here does'nt go far enough. Bogdonovich actually spends effort to humanize Hearst and Davies. In this respect, the casting may be the biggest triumph. Dunst continues to impress in her range and may have succeeded the best at fleshing out Davies. However, is there any limit to the style and character that Eddie Izzard brings to any role? He is brilliant. Not as Chaplin the screen star but as Chaplin the man; faults and all. It can't be stated enough the support that is lent by Joannna Lumley, Cary Elwes, Jennifer Tilly et al. They make this an ensemble parade that is dripping with mood and style.
This film with all its legend, mythos, and reality weaved together to make a beautiful picture works on many levels not the least is murder mystery if you aren't familiar with the story going in. In the historic movie feud between Welles and Hearst, I'm sure Orson is chuckling at a fine piece of cinema spouting one more shot at the rich and powerful by his friend Bogdonovich. Bravo Peter.
Hell Yes! Besides anyone doubting the "realities" of the behavior of powerful men such as W.R. Hearst to control others lives thru intimidation or even murder are living in a box. In fact, the film here does'nt go far enough. Bogdonovich actually spends effort to humanize Hearst and Davies. In this respect, the casting may be the biggest triumph. Dunst continues to impress in her range and may have succeeded the best at fleshing out Davies. However, is there any limit to the style and character that Eddie Izzard brings to any role? He is brilliant. Not as Chaplin the screen star but as Chaplin the man; faults and all. It can't be stated enough the support that is lent by Joannna Lumley, Cary Elwes, Jennifer Tilly et al. They make this an ensemble parade that is dripping with mood and style.
This film with all its legend, mythos, and reality weaved together to make a beautiful picture works on many levels not the least is murder mystery if you aren't familiar with the story going in. In the historic movie feud between Welles and Hearst, I'm sure Orson is chuckling at a fine piece of cinema spouting one more shot at the rich and powerful by his friend Bogdonovich. Bravo Peter.