Review of Me and Orson Welles (2008) by Kathryn P — 15 Dec 2009

Set in New York, 1937. Me and Orson Welles documents a famous event in theatre history: the production of Welles' 'Caesar' at the Mercury Theatre on Broadway. The legendary film director is captured in all his self-centred & obsessive glory by newcomer Christian McKay. This is the performance of the film. McKay is just outstanding and totally credible as the domineering Orson Welles, determined to stamp his mark on Broadway. Zac Efron plays the central character of Richard 'Junior' who learns a few hard lessons about how to get on in life. He finds himself playing a part in Welles' play but love & ambition cause a few problems along the way. Efron does a great job in this role, putting in a convincing performance that plays well next to McKay, though he doesn't get a lot to sink his teeth into.

This is a good film, but some might find the lack of a strong plot makes this a little too tame. My only criticism is that the film tends to deflate slightly when McKay is not on screen, which maybe suggests that some stronger material for the incidental parts might have been in order. However, the period details are done superbly & the 'Mercury Theatre' (a discovery on the Isle of man) is just the ticket.