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| Movie Review: Dying Gaul Alternate Title: Sex, Lies and Chat Rooms
Story: How to describe a compelling
must-see film with the appropriate aplomb? Hmm - acting beyond
the pale, intriguing dialogue, plot twists, revenge, lust, life, death
and the human condition are treated with sensitivity and drama. How
does that grab you? Our protagonist, Robert has written a screenplay about two men that
Hollywood wants. The caveat is that the characters need to be rewritten
as a heterosexual couple rather than a homosexual couple so that it
has an audience. This film depicts a Hollywood predator studio executive
pitted against the innocent, not willing to compromise screenwriter.
The power of money prevails and the story takes off into directions
you will not be prepared to watch. Based on the 1998 stage play by Craig Lucas this leap
to the big screen works without flaws. Lucas makes the jump to director
without a hitch. His other screenplays include The Secret Lives
of Dentists, Prelude to a Kiss and the very wonderful, Longtime Companion.We
watch the power of sex and money change characters. The wife of the
studio executive becomes an integral if not central part of the plot.
I won't reveal much of the drama because I don't want to spoil the film
for you. Trust me when I say that you will be riveted and will not be sure who
to root for in this very fine piece of celluloid. To see the sculpture
'The Dying Gaul' go to:http://www.sculpturegallery.com/sculpture/dying_gaul.html Acting: The three actor cast is brilliant. Peter
Sarsgaard is amazing as the seemingly innocent screenwriter
.Patricia Clarkson, as always is right on the money.
She is even more compelling and believable than usual as the wife of
the Hollywood big-wig. Campbell Scott as the executive
plays his part with his usual skill.
Predilection: None
Critters: 0
Soundtrack: Compelling soundtrack by Steve
Reich
Opening Titles: Titles at end
Theater Audience: Fairly crowded for a Tuesday mid
afternoon.
Sappy Factor: 0
Drift Factor: Dare not to blink or you will miss something.
Predictability Level: Did not have a clue as to where
this was going. I did not see the stage play.
Oscar Worthy: Patricia Clarkson and Peter Sarsgaard
are worthy.
Big Screen or Rental: I am not sure where the audience
for this film will come from. Check it out if you can on the big screen.
Some of Peter Sarsgaard's other fine work is in: Kinsey,
Garden State, Shattered Glass, K-19: The Widowmaker, Boys Don't Cry
and Dead Man Walking. For some of Patricia Clarkson's
other work check out: Good Night, and Good Luck, Dogville, The Station
Agent, Pieces of April, Far from Heaven and Joe Gould's Secret.
Length: Under two hours.
LOBO HOWLS: 9
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