Review of Hoffa (1992) by Liam S — 03 Mar 2007

I have no interest in the life of Jimmy Hoffa, and I am predisposed to disliking the man even before first frame of Hoffa is run. But I do watch, knowing the film is from a good David Mamet script, knowing that I want to be convinced that Jack Nicholson is one of our great actors, and knowing that Danny DeVito is a very serious filmmaker--that I will see his heart and soul in the film.

I am not disappointed, and I still care, not at all about James Hoffa, the man. Jack Nicholson is one of our great actors, and regardless of all his extra curricular activities, he is committed and serious craftsman, and his portrayal of James Hoffa is fine craftsmanship.

The story of Hoffa itself may be least interesting component of the film. The production design is beautiful - perfect compliment to the words of Mamet delivered by a painstakingly perfect cast.