Roll, Camera, Action: Must-Watch Movies about Film History and Filmmaking, Movies About Movies

Director: Giuseppe Tornatore
Cast: Philippe Noiret, Enzo Cannavale, Antonella Attili
Genre: Drama, Romance

My Take:

"Cinema Paradiso" (1988), directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, is a heartfelt exploration of the magic of cinema and its ability to shape our lives. The film takes us on a nostalgic journey through the eyes of Salvatore, a renowned film director, as he reminisces about his coming-of-age years in the small Sicilian village of Giancaldo. The story revolves around Salvatore's deep friendship with Alfredo, the local cinema's projectionist, and the impact of their shared love for movies on Salvatore's life.

Life isn't like in the movies. Life... is much harder.

As a tribute to the power of cinema, "Cinema Paradiso" not only celebrates the enchantment of film but also delves into the complexities of human relationships. The movie intricately weaves together the threads of love, loss, and the transformative nature of art. The recurring theme of nostalgia is beautifully captured in the film, as it reflects on the innocence and passion of youth, the warmth of friendship, and the bittersweet journey of growing up.

"Cinema Paradiso" transcends its role as a coming-of-age drama and becomes a reflection on the universal impact of storytelling. Tornatore invites the audience to cherish the memories, embrace the power of dreams, and appreciate the lasting influence of cinema on our lives.

Giuseppe Tornatore masterfully crafts a narrative that not only tells a poignant story but also serves as a cinematic love letter. The film's Oscar-winning score by Ennio Morricone enhances the emotional resonance, creating an immersive experience that lingers in the hearts of cinephiles. The film's timeless exploration of the human experience through the lens of cinema cements its place as a masterpiece and a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling.

Director: Damien Chazelle
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Rosemarie DeWitt
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music

My Take:

"La La Land" (2016), directed by Damien Chazelle, is a mesmerizing ode to dreams and love in the bustling world of modern Hollywood. The film follows aspiring actress Mia (Emma Stone) and jazz enthusiast Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) as they navigate the challenges of pursuing their passions while falling deeply in love.

“So bring on the rebels, the ripples from pebbles, the painters, and poets, and plays, and here’s to the fools who dream.”

Chazelle's commitment to preserving the film's jazz-centric theme and bittersweet ending, despite initial studio resistance, resulted in an authentic and harmonious blend of classic movie magic and contemporary narrative. The script celebrates the passions that drive people, creating a relatable and emotionally resonant experience. Homages to classic films add layers of depth for cinephiles.

Chazelle's masterful direction, featuring rhythmic cinematography and vibrant colors shot on celluloid film, captures audiences with continuous, uncut sequences. The chemistry between Gosling and Stone, coupled with their invested performances, breathes life into Mia and Sebastian's relatable journey. The musical score, with melancholy melodies and upbeat tunes, enhances the storytelling, creating an immersive experience.

"La La Land" not only captivates with its romantic narrative but also achieved unparalleled success, breaking records with 14 Oscar nominations and securing multiple wins. Here’s to the hearts that love movies. Here’s to ones who romanticize filmmaking, lusted for cinematography, love-struck by music score. More than that, here is the film for people with passion and dreams.

Director: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly
Cast: Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds
Genre: Comedy, Musical, Romance

My Take:

"Singin' in the Rain" (1952) is a timeless masterpiece that delves into the heart of Hollywood's transition from silent films to talkies. Set against the backdrop of a bustling movie studio in Hollywood, the film brilliantly satirizes the challenges and absurdities of the filmmaking process during this pivotal era. The story revolves around the charismatic Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), who, alongside his friend Cosmo Brown (Donald O'Connor) and aspiring actress Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), navigates the tumultuous shift in the industry.

What's the first thing an actor learns? "The show must go on!' Come rain, come shine, come snow, come sleet, the show must go on!

The film's enduring charm lies in its ability to cleverly parody the illusions of filmmaking while embracing the sheer joy and magic of the musical genre. With its intelligent script, witty humor, and unforgettable musical numbers, "Singin' in the Rain" transcends the boundaries of escapism, elevating it to the realm of art. The movie's success is not merely in its status as a musical but in its role as a cultural and historical commentary on the transformative period in film history.

Featuring vibrant dance sequences and catchy tunes, the film seamlessly blends homage and parody. It stands as a testament to the collaborative prowess of the MGM studio system during the 1940s and '50s. Despite the original negative being lost in a fire, the legacy of "Singin' in the Rain" endures, leaving an indelible mark on the history of cinematic storytelling.

"Singin' in the Rain", ability to simultaneously poke fun at the filmmaking process while embracing the joy of storytelling is what makes it a transcendent experience. As a witty and intelligent satire, the film not only captivates with its entertainment value but also serves as a poignant reflection on the evolution of an industry that continues to shape our cultural landscape.

Director: Michel Hazanavicius
Cast: Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, John Goodman
Genre: Drama, Romance, Comedy

My Take:

You and I belong to another era, George. The world is talking now. People want new faces, talking faces. I wish it wasn’t like this, but the public wants fresh meat, and the public is never wrong.

The Artist is a modern silent film that pays homage to Hollywood’s golden era. With its black-and-white cinematography and use of music, it transports the viewer back to the time of silent films. The movie tells the story of a former movie star, George Valentin, and a young actress, Peppy Miller, as they navigate the transition from silent films to talkies. The film’s score was composed by Ludovic Bource, adding to the nostalgia of the time period.

The lead actor, Jean Dujardin, gave a standout performance, earning him the Best Actor Academy Award. The film was a major success, receiving numerous awards and accolades for its direction, cinematography, and acting. It was praised for its creative and innovative approach, taking the elements of silent films and modernizing them for contemporary audiences.

The Artist is a charming and entertaining film celebrating silent cinema’s art. It’s a love letter to Hollywood’s golden era and a testament to the power of filmmaking. With its unique story, touching romance, and outstanding performances, The Artist is a must-see for anyone who loves movies.

Director: Alejandro G. Iñárritu
Cast: Michael Keaton, Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton
Genre: Comedy, Drama

My Take:

"Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" (2014) is a spectacular journey into the inner workings of the showbiz psyche. Directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, the movie takes us through the tumultuous life of Riggan Thomson, a former celebrity trying to revive his career through a daring theater production. Michael Keaton, in a role that earned him numerous accolades, brilliantly portrays Riggan's struggle with his alter ego, the titular Birdman, in this psychological drama intertwined with elements of satire and dark comedy.

Popularity is the slutty little cousin of prestige.

What sets "Birdman" apart is its unique filming approach. Carefully rehearsed and shot in sequence, the movie boasts an astonishing editing feat, with only sixteen visible cuts throughout the entire film. The two-month production, including rehearsals, showcases the dedication of the cast and crew. Michael Keaton, in an interview, declared it the most challenging project of his career, emphasizing the vast dissimilarity between himself and the complex character of Riggan.

The cinematography in "Birdman" is a triumph on every creative level. The one-shot technique employed not only inspired numerous films but also served as a testament to the exhilarating originality of this cinematic masterpiece. The seamless flow of the camera mirrors the interconnectedness of the story, characters, and even the concept of time and space within the film. It's a cinematic blast that challenges conventional storytelling and captivates the audience from start to finish.

"Birdman" achieved an impressive feat at the Oscars, winning four prestigious awards. The movie's success goes beyond the awards, as it has left an indelible mark on the film industry, inspiring filmmakers to push boundaries and experiment with innovative techniques. Beyond its technical achievements, "Birdman" delves into themes of midlife crisis, the pursuit of artistic validation, and the internal struggles of those in the spotlight. This darkly comedic exploration of the human psyche in the realm of showbiz is a testament to the power of creativity and originality in filmmaking.

Director: Quentin Tarantino
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie
Genre: Drama, Comedy

My Take:

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a love letter to the 1960s era of Hollywood, showcasing the Western filmmaking industry and the Manson murders that shook the city in 1969. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Rick Dalton, a fading western star, and Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth, his longtime stunt double and friend. Margot Robbie plays Sharon Tate, a real-life actress, and victim of the Manson murders. The film is an alternate history, creating a fictional ending for the events that unfolded on August 8th and 9th of 1969.

The movie is also a film within a film, as we see Rick Dalton struggling to maintain his relevance in Hollywood while filming a new Western TV series. The film features multiple fictional characters, actors, and real-life figures such as Bruce Lee and Steve McQueen. The blending of reality and fiction is a signature of Tarantino’s style.

The standout performance in the film is Brad Pitt’s portrayal of Cliff Booth, for which he won Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role at the Oscars. Pitt’s performance is both charismatic and understated, adding depth to his character’s laidback persona. Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance as Rick Dalton is also noteworthy, as he portrays a man grappling with his fading career and the loneliness that comes with it.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a fun and nostalgic film that showcases Tarantino’s signature style and pays homage to a bygone era of Hollywood. The film’s alternate-history ending may not be for everyone, but it’s an entertaining and satisfying conclusion. It was nominated for ten Oscars and won two, including Best Original Screenplay for Quentin Tarantino. The film’s attention to detail in recreating the 1960s Hollywood era is noteworthy.

Director: Federico Fellini
Cast: Marcello Mastroianni, Anouk Aime, Claudia Cardinale, Sandra Milo
Genre: Drama

My Take:

"8½" (1963) stands as a testament to Federico Fellini's genius, a surreal exploration of a director's struggles with creativity and life. The film's inception is a marvel itself, born out of Fellini's chaotic thoughts and experiences, a true avant-garde masterpiece that continues to inspire artists and captivate audiences with its abstract storytelling.

All the confusion of my life... has been a reflection of myself! Myself as I am, not as I'd like to be.

The title, reflecting the number of films Fellini had directed up to that point, mirrors the protagonist's journey. Guido Anselmi, portrayed by Marcello Mastroianni, grapples with a creative block, and Fellini ingeniously weaves autobiographical elements into the narrative. The movie unfolds as Guido navigates through memories, childhood, and relationships, embodying the director's own struggles to create an original and unique idea.

Despite technical flaws, such as dubbing issues common in Italian cinema of the time, "8½" overcomes these minor distractions. Its avant-garde approach earned it the Academy Award for Best Foreign-Language Film and Best Costume Design, solidifying its place in cinematic history.

"8½" challenges traditional storytelling structures, breaking and reforming rules with its complex narrative. Viewers may initially feel lost, mirroring Guido's character, but as the film progresses, it immerses them in the beautiful mess of the creative process. Fellini's use of surrealism blends dreams with reality, creating a visual and technical masterpiece that influenced generations of filmmakers. Fellini's portrayal of the trials and tribulations of filmmaking is a journey into the complexities of creativity and the human psyche, making it a timeless and influential classic in the realm of cinema.

Director: Martin Scorsese
Cast: Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, Christopher Lee, Ben Kingsley
Genre: Drama, Family, Fantasy

My Take:

Hugo is a visual feast, a movie that truly showcases Scorsese’s love for cinema. The film is set in Paris during the 1930s, and it’s about a young boy named Hugo Cabret (Asa Butterfield) who is an orphan and lives in the walls of a train station. He meets a girl named Isabelle (Chloë Grace Moretz), who helps him unlock the secrets of his past and the automaton his father left him. Scorsese tells a heartwarming story that’s full of wonder and imagination.

What makes this film so special is the way Scorsese weaves together several themes: the joy of filmmaking, the importance of preserving old movies, and the power of imagination. The film pays tribute to the pioneers of cinema, such as Georges Méliès, whose work inspired Scorsese himself. Through the character of Hugo, Scorsese celebrates the magic of movies and how they have the power to transport us to other worlds.

The film is also a tribute to the art of filmmaking itself. Scorsese has long been a film preservationist and historian, and his passion for the medium is evident in every frame of this movie. The scenes set in the train station are beautifully shot, and the 3D effects are used to great effect. The film’s visual effects team won an Oscar for their work, and it’s easy to see why.

In the end, Hugo is a triumph, a film that reminds us why we love movies in the first place. Scorsese has crafted a love letter to cinema that’s both beautiful and moving. It’s a film that will captivate audiences for years to come. It’s no wonder it won five Oscars, including Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing.

Director: Satoshi Kon
Cast: Miyoko Shôji, Shôzô Îzuka, Mami Koyama
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Romance

My Take:

Millennium Actress is an enthralling film that seamlessly blends reality and illusion, leaving the viewer questioning what is real and what is not. The movie, directed by the late Satoshi Kon, tells the story of a legendary actress named Chiyoko Fujiwara, who is interviewed by a documentary filmmaker in the twilight of her life. As she recounts her life story, the line between her memories and the movies she starred in becomes increasingly blurred.

I despise you more than I can bear. And I love you more than I can bear. One day you will understand!

The film’s nonlinear structure adds to its surrealism, as the story jumps between different timeframes, from the present day to the Edo period. The editing is excellent, with the transitions between different periods feeling natural and seamless.

The character of Chiyoko is expertly crafted, and the viewer is taken on a journey through her life as she chases after a mysterious man she fell in love with as a young girl. The way the film weaves together Chiyoko’s memories and the movie she starred in is nothing short of masterful. As the story progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between what is real and what is simply a part of Chiyoko’s onscreen persona.

The film suggests that movies can be as powerful as our actual experiences, and the lines between the two can become blurred. This theme is particularly poignant given that the film was released just a few years before the rise of YouTube and social media, which have only made it easier for us to construct and manipulate our personal narratives.

Millennium Actress is a masterful film that rewards repeat viewings. Its blend of surrealism and realism, combined with its examination of the power of cinema, makes it a truly unique and memorable work of art. The film suggests that movies can be as powerful as our actual experiences, and the lines between the two can become blurred. This theme is particularly poignant given that the film was released just a few years before the rise of YouTube and social media, which have only made it easier for us to construct and manipulate our personal narratives.

Director: David Lynch
Cast: Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Justin Theroux
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

My Take:

"Mulholland Drive," David Lynch's enigmatic masterpiece, takes its audience on a surreal journey through the shadowy corridors of Hollywood's dreams and nightmares. The film, originally conceived as a television pilot, metamorphosed into a nonlinear narrative that defies conventional storytelling. It unfolds like a sinister puzzle, leaving fragments of a twisted Hollywood tale for viewers to assemble, or perhaps, deconstruct.

It'll be just like in the movies. Pretending to be somebody else.

In the labyrinth of Mulholland Drive, Lynch introduces characters like Betty Elms (Naomi Watts) and Rita (Laura Harring), weaving a tale that blurs the boundaries between reality and illusion. The nonlinear timeline adds layers of complexity, inviting interpretation and speculation. Lynch, a maestro of surrealism, guides the audience through a neo-noir landscape where every scene is pregnant with symbolism and meaning.

"Mulholland Drive" transcends cinematic boundaries; it's a Lynchian dreamscape that invites viewers to grapple with the unknown. This cult film, voted the best of the 21st century, elicits polarizing reactions. Some see it as a poisonous letter to Hollywood, while others revel in its ominous suspense and Lynch's signature mystique. The film's nomination for an Oscar underscores its artistic merit, even as it challenges traditional storytelling norms.

Director: Steven Spielberg
Cast: Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle, Paul Dano
Genre:Drama

My Take:

Last year many of the audience missed the decade's best musical romance, "West Side Story," to watch in theatres; I hope this movie does not get that treatment because of OTT platforms.

"The Fabelmans" is a must-watch for Steven Spielberg fans. As a massive fan of the director, I was excited to see a film that delves into the family and childhood that shaped him. And I was not disappointed. The film tells the fictionalized story of the Fabelman family, with a young Steven Spielberg stand-in as the protagonist. The film explores the complex relationships within the family and the struggles of artistic drive versus personal responsibility.

One standout aspect of the film is how it explores the mysterious nature of talent and the sacrifices one must make in pursuit of it. The film also delves into the theme of family and the complexities of being a parent and a child.

The film also includes a memorable and unique appearance of filmmaker David Lynch as the greatest film director ever, which is both funny and fitting for a movie about the art and craft of filmmaking.

"The Fabelmans" is a beautifully crafted and emotionally rich film that will resonate with Steven Spielberg fans. Steven masterfully crafted a fictional account of his own upbringing and the influences that shaped him as an artist.

Director: Martin Scorsese
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale
Genre: Biography, Drama

My Take:

Martin Scorsese’s “The Aviator” is a grand biographical picture of one of the most flamboyant and intriguing figures of the 20th century, Howard Hughes, who was not only a billionaire but also a filmmaker and a pioneering aviator. The movie explores his life, love, and mental illness battles. Leonardo DiCaprio gives a career-best performance as Hughes, fully inhabiting the role of the obsessive-compulsive billionaire with incredible intensity and depth.

One of the movie’s highlights is Cate Blanchett’s portrayal of Katharine Hepburn, Hughes’ on-and-off-again girlfriend. Blanchett’s Oscar-winning performance is a tour-de-force of impersonation, capturing Hepburn’s voice, mannerisms, and spirit to a tee. The chemistry between Blanchett and DiCaprio is also electric, adding another layer of emotional complexity to the film.

Scorsese’s direction is impeccable, capturing the glamour and decadence of Hollywood in the 1920s and 30s and the excitement of the aviation industry during its early days. The movie’s attention to detail is remarkable, from the period-accurate costumes and sets to the recreation of some of the most famous planes in history. The score by Howard Shore is also exceptional, adding to the movie’s overall grandeur.

“The Aviator” is a compelling and entertaining biopic that captures the essence of one of the most fascinating figures of the 20th century. DiCaprio and Blanchett’s performances are exceptional, and Scorsese’s direction is top-notch. The only downside to the movie is that it feels like it’s trying to do too much, covering too many aspects of Hughes’ life and struggles, which can make it feel a bit unfocused at times. Despite that, the movie is a must-see for anyone interested in commercial aviation history or the life of Howard Hughes.

Director: Tim Burton
Cast: Johnny Depp, Martin Landau, Sarah Jessica Parker
Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama

My Take:

"Ed Wood" (1994) emerges as a cinematic gem that defies expectations, delving into the eccentric world of one of Hollywood's most infamous misfit directors. Tim Burton's film is an exploration of artistic creation and an existential poetry of sorts, presenting the extraordinary life of Ed Wood with wit, imagination, and a touch of grace.

Filmmaking is not about the tiny details. It's about the big picture.

The movie follows the quirky and unconventional Ed Wood, portrayed brilliantly by Johnny Depp, as he pursues his passion for filmmaking despite facing numerous setbacks. Burton captures the essence of Wood's misfit personality and his unwavering determination to bring his unique visions to the silver screen. The film navigates through the highs and lows of Wood's career, showcasing the challenges faced by a director whose unconventional approach often clashed with mainstream expectations.

"Ed Wood" is a must-watch not only for film lovers but for anyone who appreciates stories of resilience and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Burton's direction is impeccable, infusing the film with a perfect blend of humor, heart, and a profound understanding of the showbiz drama. The narrative transcends the conventional biopic formula, making it an unexpected and delightful experience. Johnny Depp's performance as Ed Wood is transformative, capturing the spirit of the eccentric director with nuance and authenticity.

Tim Burton's masterful storytelling, coupled with Johnny Depp's exceptional performance, elevates this film into a unique exploration of creativity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream differently. It stands as a testament to the unpredictable and often whimsical nature of the filmmaking process, leaving an indelible mark on the audience's perception of what defines success.

Director: Richard Attenborough
Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Geraldine Chaplin, Paul Rhys
Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama

My Take:

"Chaplin" (1992) ventures into the fascinating life of the iconic Hollywood figure, Charles Chaplin. Directed by Richard Attenborough, the film captures the essence of Chaplin's journey, portraying the highs and lows of the Hollywood icon's 88-year existence. Robert Downey Jr., in a transformative performance, delves into Chaplin's character with dedication, learning violin and tennis left-handed and impeccably imitating Chaplin's posture and mannerisms.

If you want to understand me, watch my movies.

The biopic takes on the monumental task of recounting the life of Chaplin, a challenge given the vastness of his experiences. The original cut, nearly four hours long, reflects the complexity of encapsulating such a prolific career within the confines of a film. Despite the inherent limitations, "Chaplin" succeeds in offering glimpses into the magic of Chaplin at his best, showcasing moments that are perfect in themselves.

"Chaplin" may not be a flawless cinematic biography, but it serves as a worthy tribute to the Hollywood legend. Robert Downey Jr.'s exceptional performance and the film's commitment to capturing the magic of Chaplin's moments contribute to its significance. "Chaplin" is more than a mere retelling of history; it's a cinematic exploration that holds up a light to the complexities and brilliance of one of the most influential figures in film history.

Director: James Franco
Cast: James Franco, Dave Franco, Ari Graynor
Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama

My Take:

The Disaster Artist explores the friendship between Greg Sestero and Tommy Wiseau and their quest to make a movie. The story is based on Sestero’s memoir, which recounts his experiences working with Wiseau on The Room. James Franco plays the eccentric Tommy Wiseau with impressive nuance and authenticity, while his younger brother Dave Franco portrays Sestero. The on-screen chemistry between the two Franco brothers adds a remarkable quality to the film. Their performances were hilarious and moving, providing an insight into the true nature of friendship.

The Disaster Artist manages to be a film within a film, delving into the intricacies of the making of The Room. It is a fascinating look at the creative process behind a notorious cult classic, offering a glimpse into the world of filmmaking, the challenges faced by artists, and the lengths some people will go to make their dreams a reality. The film showcases the behind-the-scenes struggles that were encountered during the production of The Room, highlighting the absurdity and humor of the situation.

The film’s production design and costumes successfully recreate the look and feel of the original film. The attention to detail and the care taken in reproducing certain scenes from The Room is impressive.

The Disaster Artist is a delightful and entertaining film that explores the true meaning of friendship, perseverance, and creative expression. It is an impressive directorial effort from James Franco, who also delivers a brilliant performance as the eccentric Tommy Wiseau. The film manages to be both a tribute to The Room and a fascinating look at the creative process behind filmmaking. The Disaster Artist is an outstanding film that will appeal to a broad audience with its humor, heart, and affection for its subject matter.

Director: Spike Jonze
Cast: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper
Genre: Comedy, Drama

My Take:

"Adaptation" (2002) delves into the labyrinth of creativity, a surreal exploration of the loneliness that often accompanies the writing process. Nicolas Cage, portraying Charlie Kaufman, followed director Spike Jonze's unconventional guidance, resulting in an Academy Award nomination. Meryl Streep, recognizing the brilliance of the screenplay, labeled it the best she had ever read. The film's approach to dissecting the creative journey stands out, capturing the essence of the writing experience.

We are what we love, not what loves us.

As a satire comedy and showbiz drama, "Adaptation" stands as a testament to intelligent screenwriting. It boldly navigates the complexities of the creative mind, offering a rare glimpse into the smart, inventive, and passionate world of screenwriting. The movie's playfully brilliant execution showcases the magic of storytelling, making it a unique entry in the exploration of the creative process.

"Adaptation" is not just a movie about writing; it's an introspective journey into the human condition. It goes beyond the surface of the creative struggle and becomes a celebration of life. The film encourages viewers to embrace life fully, urging them to cast aside concerns about external judgments. In a larger sense, "Adaptation" becomes a profound commentary on the simple act of enjoying life without the burden of societal expectations, transforming it into an existential reflection.

Director: David Fincher
Cast: Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins
Genre: Biography, Drama

My take:
Mank (2020) is another technical masterpiece from director David Fincher, a master of details who brought great movies like Fight Club, Seven, The Social Network, Gone Girl, etc. However, this artistic masterpiece suffers from a lack of personality. David Fincher’s late father, Jack Fincher, wrote the script of Mank (2020). Follows the real story of Herman Mankiewicz (Gary Oldman) shortly called as Mank, working on Citizen Kane (1941) screenplay. Citizen Kane is considered the greatest film of all time because of its filmmaking and screenplay that Hollywood has never seen before.

Mank is an influential exceptional writer; he is washed up and addicted to gambling and alcohol at present. After Orson Welles calls Mank to write a screenplay for him without credit, He sets sail to write a story that has never been shown on the film screen. Mank writes his lead roles based on William Randolf, Marion Davies, and many studio political figures. William Randolf, an American businessman, newspaper publisher, and politician. And Marion Davies, an American actress, screenwriter, and philanthropist.

Disappointingly the plot, which should be more interesting, feels dull and flat without any emotion. Even for the cinephile, the overburdened character’s heavy dialogues linked to the studio and politics make it easily lost in every corner. For non-American like me, the political track is so distracting. It didn’t seem engaging enough to do the homework about the characters. Still, once again, Gary Oldman gave an award-worthy performance as an alcoholic, self-destructive writer along with Amanda Seyfried. She is genuinely shined as Marion Davies.

Capturing the true essence of the 1940s movies is not an easy task. In Mank, from using Monostrochrome cameras to lighting, greyness, and clothing textures, many did pitch perfectly in mastery direction from David Fincher. It’s a beautiful homage to Citizen Kane and 1940s movies.

To be clear, Mank (2020) isn’t for everyone; it may fall behind with its not engaging story. However, it definitely takes the audience to the 1940s era with its immaculate crafting and performance—a worth watch for cinephiles.