Review of Being Flynn (2012) by Steven B — 23 Mar 2012

I'm not sure why some of the critics didn't give this an immediate 'thumbs up' given that Robert De Niro and Paul Dano are normally favorites of the literati. This is based on Nick Flynn's first memoir and covers abandonment, suicide, alcoholism, homelessness, drug addiction, and still manages to end on a relatively (given the journey) high note.

A lot of The Old Geezers Who Go To The Matinee Alone seemed moved by this; but then Lady With Crazy Hair Who Talks To Herself and Old Couple Who Talk To Each Other are moved by a blank screen. I did hear one guy say 'Way too real' as he walked out and that was my impression. This is a very uncomfortable movie to watch if you have any familiarity with the troubles it covers. The depiction of homelessness and how it impacts people was, given modern American life, especially moving.

Not a 'feel good' movie by a long shot, but well worth your time and money if only to watch two great American actors giving it their all.