Review of Being There (1979) by Johnny T — 07 Aug 2014

Smart, sophisticated, and refreshingly subtle, Being There soars behind sensitive direction from Hal Ashby and a stellar Peter Sellers performance. The overall tone is one of light drama, and it's only through its situations that it becomes a sly, witty statement on society, politics and pop culture. There are plenty of films that entertain without being profound in any way. Then there are "message" movies that strive so hard to educate their audience that they're unbearable to watch. Being There is a rare film that is enjoyable, but also a brilliant social satire that can generate hours of conversation. Being There featured one of comedy's giants in one of his best (and final) performances, directed by an excellent auteur. Jerzy Kosinski's modern fable gets a terrific translation to the screen due to his tight screenplay, capable direction by Ashby, and a marvelous performance by Sellers, one unlike any other in his career. The film will have you thinking and talking about it long after you're done, and technically it's above average, which makes Being There a fun and unique cinematic experience...

VERDICT: "High-Quality Stuff" - [Positive Reaction] This is a rating to a movie I view as very entertaining and well made, and definitely worth paying the full price at a theatre to see or own on DVD. It is not perfect, but it is definitely excellent. (Films that are rated 3.5 or 4 stars).