Review of The Last Movie Star (2018) by Anthony B — 23 Jun 2018

Once in a decade Burt Reynolds reminds us he can act, and while the novelty of praising him as the Bandit or Gator McKlusky never gets old, he has and it is tragic to see a thespian of his caliber not get the respect he deserves.

Yes, the man made a career out of B movies like Smokey and the Bandit and Cannonball Run, but he also stole the show in a number of prestigious films including Deliverance, Boogie Nights, and Starting Over.

The Last Movie Star is not in the same league as any of those, that said, Burt Reynolds is better than ever, giving the definitive honest performance. I feel like this film was therapy for Burt Reynolds because throughout the story his character Vic Edwards, who I have to believe is based on him, spends what is left of his twilight years reflecting on the poor choices he's made both professional and personal.

Additionally, the film uses clips from two of his most iconic films in a very touching way that is also really funny and smart. Unfortunately, while film geek love, nostalgia, and sentimentality are what makes The Last Movie Star good, it is the lack of funny and smart that prevents it from being great.

The director who also gave us the vastly different and also superior Detroit Rock City does an admirable job because you can tell he cares about the material and cinema in general, but his screenwriting leaves a lot to be desired.

At the end of the day though, this is the love song to Burt Reynolds no one had the courage to make, and while it is hardly perfect I am glad it exists because when Burt passes, it will only help reaffirm the quality his legacy.

.. Also, some girl from Modern Family is in this film and she is godawful. Nearly ruined the whole thing and I hate her with a passion. That is all.