Review of Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002) by Tristan F — 16 Apr 2008

Reports are Charlie Kaufman was unhappy with this film version of his adaptation of Chuck Barris' notorious "autobiography." Yes, a producer of games shows like The Gong Show who confessed to working for the CIA on contract hits.

George Clooney's direction may take it all a bit too seriously, but in essence, that's the point: that an outrageous, fake-o autobiography gets the serious filmic treatment. Being critically reviled for trash television in the late 1970s is extended into a parodic vision of America's downfall from the Cold War period onwards (kind of like Oliver Stone but with a self-aware sense of humour) Filled with visually stylish touches and darkly-comic gags, the film is strengthened by its performances, particularly Drew Barrymore and the fantastic Sam Rockwell, getting a shot at leading man status, as Barris.