Review of Mank (2020) by Megomike — 20 Jan 2021

Mank is a film written by Jack Fincher, and directed by the immeasurable and courageous David Fincher (Se7en, Social Network, Gone Girl). A film, taking place at RKO Pictures in the 1940s, that pokes at the essences of the cinematic heroes of years’ past can be viewed as no less than heroic.

But the story itself, one of fine pedigree, ends up being nothing more than a well-acted study in monotony. Unforgettable performances by this top notch acting crew include brilliant Oscar Winner Gary Oldman (Dracula, Tinker Tailor, Soldier, Spy, and Darkest Hour), Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia, Mean Girls), Sam Troughton as a slightly believable John Houseman, and a perfect performance by Tom Burke as Orson Welles, easily the most impressive acting past Oldman himself.

Ferdinand Kingsley as Irving Thalber is a revelation! Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails does the score. Mank follows the days and months of hopeless alcoholic Herman Mankiewicz, as he is chosen by wunderkind Orsen Welles to pen his next great masterpiece.

Mankiewicz, or, Mank as he is referred to, works within his own constraints having recently experienced an automobile accident that has rendered him lame. Not to be constrained by physical limitations, the perpetually inebriated Mank requires the absolute best from his entourage to assist him in completing his rushed opus, Citizen Kane.

At all points along the journey his support team of lovers and professionals endure Mank’s idiosyncrasies to bring out his best and complete the masterpiece that would become Citizen Kane, such as it is.

I will say, as a former student of theatre, that the performances throughout this film are miraculous, and almost make this a film worth watching. But, as a critic, and in full honesty, unless you are an extreme fan of the original subject matter, or an actor seeking to find the pure nuances of pure theater, then I would struggle to recommend this movie as enjoyable.

For a date night where neither party truly wants to watch fine cinema, yes. For an auteur looking to advance her or his craft, yes. If you are looking to lose yourself in fictional bliss for two hours and solve the mysteries of life however, no.

I expect many of the cast and likely the film itself to garner much recognition by the Academy in 2021, and well deserved. The performances are the only thing this incredibly slow and boring story have to offer.

Look for Oldman, Seyfried as Marion, an irrelevant love interest, Burke and Kingsley to receive proper attention by the Oscar voters. But while Iexpect the film to garner many award nominations due to the theme of historical drama, I’m not prepared to recommend this film for any reason outside of the masterful performances of its actors in a largely boring tale.

I give this film 3/5 stars solely on the strength of its actors.