Review of Hollywoodland (2006) by Daniel P — 23 Apr 2010
A fictionalised investigation into the mysterious death of George "Superman" Reeves, Hollywoodland works mostly by virtue of some solid direction and excellent performances; the writing is wholly unconvincing and the film is too long by 20 minutes.
The biggest problem is Adrien Brody's PI character. This is not a criticism of Brody himself, who is actually very good, but his character arc is faintly ridiculous and his breakdown, and possible redemption, is clunky and plot-driven.
His story, which takes up just over half of the film, is pretty uninteresting, whereas the flashback sequences telling Reeves' story is fascinating and exciting. However, as a thriller, which is how the film is marketed, Hollywoodland simply fails and feels fake.
Worth watching for the performances, every one of which, aside from Bob Hoskins' hammy turn, is excellent. Molly Parker puts her all into a small and thankless role, Diane Lane is exceptional as the washed-up wife of a studio big wig, and best of all is.
... Ben Affleck. There I said it. Affleck is truly great, giving a nuanced but understated performance; by not trying to be a 'screen presence' he shows more charisma than a good two thirds of his back catalogue.
This review of Hollywoodland (2006) was written by Daniel P on 23 Apr 2010.
Hollywoodland has generally received mixed reviews.
Was this review helpful?
