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Oscar bait: A term used to define films that
lure academy voters. Leonardo DiCaprio playing
J. Edgar Hoover is one meaty hook. But an outstanding
performance does not a splendid film make. The
question is does J. EDGAR have what it takes to
be an all-around Oscar worthy film? The story
is there, the character certainly intriguing,
but when it all comes together something seems
to be amiss.
The film chronicles the 48 years of the FBI from
its creation through prominent events; all of
which centered on its creator and most notable
leader, J. Edgar Hoover (Leonardo DiCaprio). We
get to see the early years as well as events like
The Kennedy Assassination, the kidnapping of Charles
Lindbergh’ s (Josh Lucas) baby, and the
rise and fall of the American gangster. But even
more prominent is the behind the scenes glimpse
into his life of secrets; including his paranoia,
his almost myopic dedication to the bureau, and
his personal relationship with Clyde Tolson (Armie
Hammer).
Let’s get the obvious out of the way first.
DiCaprio is once again fabulous. With each film
he seems to immerse himself into a character and
rise above expectations. Some may argue that he
is just playing Howard Hughes but in a different
suite. Sure Leo leans toward playing non fictional
characters (Hughes, Abagnale, the upcoming Jay
Gatsby) but this one still stands apart. For one,
he has to play Hoover over 4 decades, each one
with different levels of conviction and emotion,
and each time the role plays out perfectly.
Those who want more bureau events and less personal
life will be a little disappointed. The happenings
that shaped our nation never get deeper than a
skim across the surface. It would have been nice
to focus a little more on the proceedings and
the bureaus actual involvement, but the film never
breaks character and always keeps the lens squarely
on Hoover and his reactions. The only acceptation
would be the Lindbergh kidnapping, manhunt and
trial. This is focused on more than others due
to Hoover’s direct involvement and the way
that the event shaped the actual FBI. At times
the film seems choppy since it never goes deeper
into certain events. Just when you think it is
going to get deep it jumps back to Hoover in a
different area of his life. The film could have
flowed a little smoother.
There is no doubt that Hoover fashioned much of
what we see today in law enforcement. His ideals
and direction were groundbreaking to say the least.
The movie does a decent job of balancing these
accolades along with the odd, almost bizarre personal
life that he led. The film certainly never defames
Hoover but still many will find his lifestyle
a secret that should have stayed kept.
J. EDGAR is rated R for brief strong language.
It is a film intended for mature audiences and
not one the kiddoes will enjoy or should be subjected
to. There are many adult themes and the subject
matter is for older viewers. It is safe to say
that some will be of put by Hoover’s preference
to male companionship. But know that it is never
portrayed in a lascivious or tasteless manner.
Fans of superb acting will find several roles
to latch onto in this one. If you want an action
packed film this is not it. There are rare moments
of FBI raids and gun play. This film is about
the life of the man, not the bureau. It just so
happens that at many times in history they were
one in the same. I give it a solid 3.75 out of
5 secret files. Certainly a vote worthy film,
just know its agenda.
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