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Confessions of a Dangerous Mind - 1/24/03 - R - 113m
Sam Rockwell
- Chuck Barris
Drew Barrymore - Penny
George Clooney - Jim Byrd
Director: George Clooney
Screenplay: Charlie Kaufman
LYN
An interesting trio brings us this dark and unusual film. First
in line: Actor George Clooney in his premier roll as Director and a point
to mention, a job well done.
Next Charlie Kaufman, not much to say here, but who better to write the
screenplay to make this into an interesting bit of film noir? I couldn't
imagine anyone else twisted enough able to bring the book to the big screen.
And last and most importantly, supposed Government hit man Chuck Barris
(writer of the book that the movie takes its name). This is a story about
the life of the before mentioned Mr. Barris. But wasn't he that guy that
hosted "The Gong Show"? The same genius that introduced us to
such unforgettable acts like "The Unknown Comic" and "Gene-Gene
The Dancing Machine"? A killer for hire? No way…but an interesting
premise to hook people into the theater, and once there, the film grabs
you and you don't know what to make of it, and then it all becomes crystal
clear. What better candidate? An unassuming and seemingly harmless presence
of a man…or perhaps not. : ) In each of us there is a little darkness.
I'm not saying the kind of shadows that would necessitate us being CIA
assassins, but wickedness just the same. The kinship that makes each of
us connected in a way, you know "born of sin" stuff. The film
gives us a peek into the unstable mind of writer/producer/game show host
Chuck Barris, and perhaps a little glimpse into our own psyche. But enough
of my own personal philosophy…
To sum it up, it was a very peculiar movie, with fine work done by all
that were involved, and special nod to Sam Rockwell and his fine portrayal
of Chuck Barris. Being a past devotee of "The Gong Show", I
think Sam did wonderful job. Bravo.
Lyn