Review of Two Weeks in Another Town (1962) by Caleb M — 06 Nov 2011

A compelling, enlightening, and (most of all) entertaining look at the Hollywood system and it's powerful grip on both directors and actors. Two Weeks in Another Town reeks of 60s anachronisms, but at times that makes it feel like it the Hollywood-Story version of La Dolce Vita (with a happy ending). The style here is tremendous, though it never overshadows Kirk Douglas' performance. Douglas is fantastic here, playing a semi-forgotten Hollywood star, discovering his hidden talent for directing. The scenes with him directing the film begun by Ed Robinson's tyrannical director Kruger are exhilarating.

While the film ends on a happy note, it isn't without it's dark spots, and even it's ending doesn't tie everything up in a bright bow. This is a fantastic film on Hollywood at an awkward time in its life, transitioning from grand spectacles showcasing gorgeous actors to creating more "realistic" and "relatable" characters and stories. It's old Hollywood cinema telling a newer, more conflicted story. At times it's breathtaking, but mostly, it's entertaining.