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mikelewin
Reviews
Capote (2005)
The best kind of biopic
The film's title suggests that this is a "biopic", but on hearing the plot - Capote's experience of writing his "non-fiction novel" about a Kansas murder - it is natural to think, how can this be a biopic if it only deals with a four-year period in Capote's life? What about Breakfast at Tiffany's? His sexuality? His premature death?
Yet on watching the film it becomes clear: Capote's experience in this time, and his relationship with the murderer, characterises his entire life and identity. A brilliant, intelligent treatment of the life of a brilliant, intelligent man.
Capote says in the film that he hopes "In Cold Blood" can define a new type of novel. It could be argued that this film defines a new type of biopic.
The Walker (2007)
Boring Boring Boring
This is the only film I have ever chosen to walk out of. I don't remember ever watching a murder mystery before in which I really couldn't care less who committed the crime. The characters are pompous and vulgar - some might say that is the point, but they are also completely one-dimensional.
The plot was dull, particularly in the first half hour before anything of note occurred. Some of the themes (e.g. not living up to his father's legacy) were very hackneyed. The political messages were predictable and smugly delivered.
Harrelson's performance is impressive and displays his versatility as an actor, but that can't make up for the fact that his voice and mannerisms are profoundly irritating.