I have just watched THE MULE and enjoyed it very much. I would rate this Eastwood's third best directorial effort, after MILLION DOLLAR BABY and MYSTIC RIVER. His control over his own performance, the rest of the cast's performances, photography, and cinematic fluidity is a case study, not least because Clint was 88 years old when he started this project.
I honestly think this is Clint's most rounded, sensitive and perceptive acting role to date, and to think that he was directing himself only increases my admiration and respect for his immense skills. He makes his character an endearing old man, and I suspect that Earl Stone is a more than slightly autobiographical portrait, which adds to the movie's interest.
Another great aspect about THE MULE is that it never takes a moralistic view, but gently reminds everyone that time with your family is the single most important thing in one's life.
Other great facets to THE MULE include the self-deprecating humor, the dry delivery, the soundtrack (the scene where the two drug dealers begin by despising Earl's outdated musical taste, to which they listen through a tapping device) only to start singing along after a while, is a hoot!
Strongly recommended.
I honestly think this is Clint's most rounded, sensitive and perceptive acting role to date, and to think that he was directing himself only increases my admiration and respect for his immense skills. He makes his character an endearing old man, and I suspect that Earl Stone is a more than slightly autobiographical portrait, which adds to the movie's interest.
Another great aspect about THE MULE is that it never takes a moralistic view, but gently reminds everyone that time with your family is the single most important thing in one's life.
Other great facets to THE MULE include the self-deprecating humor, the dry delivery, the soundtrack (the scene where the two drug dealers begin by despising Earl's outdated musical taste, to which they listen through a tapping device) only to start singing along after a while, is a hoot!
Strongly recommended.