Review of Kinsey (2004) by Bill S — 02 Apr 2015

Prior to watching this film, I was only nominally familiar with Alfred Kinsey and his life's work. Now, having seen it, KINSEY provides an interesting look at a man who devoted his life's work to probing the depths of human sexuality.

Although Kinsey started his career as a zoologist who studied gall wasps, he later discovered that people provided just as interesting a field of study. The film, although it does cover some of his early life, is primarily focused on the landmark sex study that he began in the late 1940's.

One thing that surprised me was just how funny the film was at times, but there just as many moments that struck an poignant emotional chord as well. And of course, Liam Neeson kills it as Alfred Kinsey.

This is probably the best role I've ever seen him in. And Laura Linney does just as well playing his wife. Another great aspect of the film is the writing, which was tight, smart and had great attention to character.

I also liked how it put America's hangups with sexuality right out front for all to see just how ridiculously prude we can be, just like Kinsey did with his study. It might be a little sad, but there is still a significant cross-section of Americans that remain set in their ways.

Maybe someone should show them this film and see if they have a change of heart. Ultimately, though, the film is most effective as a biopic, and a thoroughly engrossing one at that. If you're looking for a biopic on a lesser-known subject, or want to see one of Liam Neeson's best (and probably least seen) performances, then KINSEY should do just fine.