Review of Reds (1981) by Mark S — 17 Jan 2008
You have to admire Warren Beatty's intentions here. He used his star power to make this important film documenting the life and times of journalist and revolutionary John Reed. Many studios wouldn't have gone near the material without Beatty, but he co-wrote the screenplay, and starred in, produced and directed the film.
The end result saw him Oscar nominated for screenplay, production and acting, and an Oscar winner for his direction. In total Reds received 12 Oscar nominations and 3 wins. But such unprecedented success can't hide the fact that the film is not a complete success.
It's certainly epic in scope, but at least half an hour of its 3 hrs 14 mins running time could have been chopped. Too much emphasis is put on the love triangle of Reed (Beatty), Louise Bryant (Diane Keaton) and Eugene O'Neill (Jack Nicholson), and at times the film gets lost amid the lust.
Despite this Reds is an interesting film, and Beatty's skill as a director is very apparent. It just makes you wish he had done more directing while he had the chance.
This review of Reds (1981) was written by Mark S on 17 Jan 2008.
Reds has generally received very positive reviews.
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