DiCaprio Playing J. Edgar Hoover? Clint Eastwood Directing? Awesome. 09-21-2011 - by Michelle Lauren, Staff Mumbler It's nice to know that among the sea of remakes, there is some good original content on the market still. As long as there are actors like Leo and directors like ol' Clint this industry will stay somewhat redeemable in my eyes.
After Eastwood's Invictus I suppose it's not that surprising that he would do another historical figure. Despite the film being received equally among audiences and critics, it wasn't the best film Eastwood has done. This time around I think he's going to be more successful though.
I mean, which would you rather watch? An equal rights activist in South Africa or a morally ambiguous American in charge of one of the most dangerous organizations in the world? Don't get me wrong Nelson Mandela is an important figure in history, especially in international politics. However J . Edgar is a bit more interesting.
Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon are awesome as well, but Leo has shown time and time again his prowess in the acting field. Not that Freeman and Damon haven't also, I mean for crying out loud these are some of my favorite actors here. They're all very different though and I find Leo higher on my list.
Before you ask, no it's not because I thought he was cute in Titanic. Hell, I don't even like that movie that much. My reasoning lies in his exceptional performances in Inception and a personal favorite of mine The Departed.
Not to gush unequally I shall also bring my attention to Clint Eastwood's direction. I've only see a few movies that he has directed, two really, but I can honestly say I love both of them. The guy is the epitome of macho awesome actor and he's not a bad director either. Balancing interesting angles and his unique ways of story telling along with starring in the films, I say he does exceptionally.
This film in particular seems to be more of a character study. Of course that's not a bad thing. After all films like Ed Wood and Patton are revered for just showcasing an exceptional character and letting the audience decide how to feel.
J. Edgar hits theaters Nov. 9th, I know I'm seeing it in theaters. How about you?
