Review of Paterno (2018) by Martyn I — 29 Jul 2018

Al Pacino delivers one of his best performance of all time in "Paterno".

Looking at the film OBJECTIVELY, Barry Levinson does a fine job formulating a story centered on Paterno during the aftermath of the Sandusky sex abuse scandal. Its to be expected that some who will see this film will simply condemn it or trash it based upon their own emotional connection to the subject matter. BUT I believe that this film does a great job portraying several aspects. One, just how disgusting and awful the actual scandal was and how it affected the first victim who broke his silence. That's then followed by the initial reporter who helped bring the story to life. Thirdly, how it affected Paterno and his family directly. Lastly and most of all how Paterno himself handled the entire situation. If nothing else, this film is a condemnation of inaction with regards to the abuse and not taking quicker action on it.

Al Pacino completely immersed himself into the character of Joe Paterno. Pacino is measured and controlled with how he portrays Paterno's struggle to come to terms with the Sandusky abuse, and how he possibly overlooked certain signs from the past, and even the betrayal of that partnership/friendship. Like some vintage Pacino performances (aka: Michael Corleone), he communicates so much emotion through the use of his eyes and silence. Several scenes involve Paterno just sitting while his family debates and the question continues to be posed to him if he knew anything else or if he ever spoke to the child. Pacino brilliantly captures the overwhelming dread and sadness that filled the final days of his Paterno's life and how this particular dark moment that will forever change Paterno's career and legacy.