Review of Me and Orson Welles (2008) by Zoe S — 29 Aug 2010

Richard Linklater's "lost" movie "Me & Orsen Welles" opened last autumn to critical praise, but was lost in the shuffle. The film cost $25 million & earned a paltry $1.17 mil at the box office.

The film had an impressive pedigree: talented writer/director, young Zac Efron's a rising, popular star, Claire Danes, Ben Chaplin & Eddie Marsden supporting cast & a breakout performance by Christian McKay as Welles.

So, what went wrong? The rumour has it the studio (Freestyle Releasing) had severe cash flow problems & could not support a wider release of 134 screens - hopefully the film will find an audience on home video.

The film follows 17-year old Richard Samuels as a kid who lucks out & ends up in a supporting role in Welles' new play, "Caesar". The film is a love letter to the trials, tribulations & rewards experienced by a theater troupe.

Welles proves to be a talented, ego-maniacal control freak, but who is adored & ultimately respected by his co-horts. McKay is absolutely perfect as Welles - he conveys the ego & the genius of the man - whenever he's on screen, everything is electric - unfortunately, he's not on screen more! So, Efron's the main focus & he seems out of place amongst all the talent.

Yes, he's good looking & can sing well, but he lacks the dramatic chops so when he's on screen, it was a distraction. Fortunately, the remaining cast & the brisk pacing saves the film & makes it an entertaining viewing.

Linklater has done some of my favourite films about growing up & smart conversational pieces ("Dazed & Confused", "Before Sunrise" & "Before Sunset" are perfect!) This is a good, solid film which would've been better with a change in the lead or focus more on the most interesting characters (Danes & McKay).