Review of Factotum (2005) by Karl M — 22 Oct 2018
This is director Bent Hamer's attempt to bring a version of Bukowski's novel to the screen. This isn't the first time the controversial figure's work has formed the basis of a film. Most memorably, Bukowski scripted 1987's Barfly, which featured Mickey Roarke in the role of Henry Chinaski, Bukowski's fictional alter-ego.
18 years later, Matt Dillon steps into that role for Factotum. It's a simple enough story, as befits something from the pen of a man who never cared much about plot. Chinaski is at odds with the world.
He drifts through life in an alcoholic haze, never caring about much beyond his writing. His life consists of a string of short-term jobs, most of which he loses because he skips work or is too drunk to function.
His love life isn't much better. He moves from one relationship to another based on circumstances. First, he's with Jan, whose apartment becomes his refuge when he's evicted from his own. After he grows tired of spending time with her, he moves on to Laura,who keeps company with an eccentric millionaire.
A slow burner of a film. (Only for Bukowski fans).
This review of Factotum (2005) was written by Karl M on 22 Oct 2018.
Factotum has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
