Review of The Great Buck Howard (2008) by Elizabeth N — 16 May 2009

An enjoyable film with a main character you both feel for but dislike at the same time in Buck Howard. John Malkovich did an impressive job as the failing mentalist and the scene in the hospital when he admits he knows his career is over was actually pretty heartbreaking. It was also a sad look at the type of life you have when your famous, if you're on top everyone loves you but when you're failing suddenly all your friends disappear.

As a huge Colin Hanks fan I find it hard to be overly critical, but I do agree with peoples claims that perhaps his character was similar in some respects to that of his character on 'Orange County' (although I think some people are a bit harsh to claim he never really moves away from such roles, trust me I watch enough of his films to know he does branch out - it's just he makes independent films which don't get a lot of recognition). However, at the end of the day Colin is still a great actor and he still bring 110% to the roles he plays and this film is no different.

Overall the story had a touch of reality to it, it left you conflicted on how you felt for Buck and it gave great insight into the life of a failing celebrity. I would recommend people watch it at least once.