Review of Being Julia (2004) by David U — 02 Aug 2005

There is one reason to see this movie and its a good one: Annette Benning. She radiates a larger than life character that you only fine on film and in the theater. I feel bad that she has been snubbed 2 years in a row by mrs. Swank. I have seen both perforances and would have been happy with either winning. Personally I think Mrs. Vera Drake(Immelda Staunton) deserved it but enough on that subject.

We meet Julia(Benning) at a low point in her life. She believes to be done with theater and wants to "tour canada" and other things. Harry Potter fans, the movie opens with a wonderful scene from Dumbeldore(Michael Gambon) who was Julia's mentor and director. He appears throught the movie giving her little tidbits and thoughts on things. Quite amusing really.

Julia goes through several things, including an affair with a young american and comes to realize that the only person she needs is herself and the theater. She is such a larger than life character that she would rather have dinner alone than with the cast party after her play. That is where Annette Benning shines. Wether you like the movie or not, you must agree that Benning gives an oscar worthy performance.