Review of Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002) by Russell H — 14 Apr 2008

George Clooneys debut film as a director is a funnny sometimes downright bizarre story involving a Gameshow host and The CIA.

Based on the book by Chuck Barris ,the film tells of how Barris created shows like the Dating Game and The Gong Show while at the same time apparently working as A contract killer for the CIA .

Is the story True ?

Well frankly who knows ,But in Clooneys and top writer Charlie Kaufmans hands your too gripped to care whats real and whats not.

Its to actor Sam Rockwells credit that a guy like Barris ,even though he is a total jerk ,still manages to gain our sympathy.

He may be a killer and a Loudmouth Blowhard who treats his Girl friend (a understated Drew Barrymore) Terribly.

But yet we cant help liking him despite that.

Clooney directs with a true artistic vision and the remaining cast Including Julia Roberts and Rutger Hauer all give top Notch performances.

Clooneys later films may have drawn all the plaudits,but this is my personal favourite as it has so much going for it .

A small gem on its own terms.