J. EDGAR (Theatrical Release USA 2011)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.3|5.0 Stars ìììì

J. Edgar—a Clint Eastwood-directed film—focuses on the rise to power of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under the direction of J. Edgar Hoover. While the film gives a loose, fictional account of J. Edgar Hoover’s life, the movie provides an interesting interpretation of J. Edgar Hoover’s relationship with both his mother, Annie Hoover, and his friend, Clyde Tolson. Kudos to the Makeup Department for outstanding artistry in the transition from youth to old age for J. Edgar Hoover and Clyde Tolson. This film moves well and provides good adult entertainment value.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline

J. Edgar Hoover’s (Leonardo DiCaprio) life and times as he works through events such as the Lindbergh baby’s kidnapping and several presidential administrations are punctuated with views into his private life and his life before the FBI.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Clint Eastwood for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Erica Huggins and Tim Moore for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Annie Hoover (Judi Dench), Clyde Tolson (Armie Hammer), Robert Irwin (Josh Hamilton), Mitchell Palmer (Geoff Pierson), Palmer’s Wife (Cheryl Lawson), Palmer’s Daughter (Kaitlyn Dever), Dwight Eisenhower (Gunner Wright), Franklin Roosevelt (David A. Cooper), Agent Smith (Ed Westwick), Helen Gandy (Naomi Watts), and Robert Kennedy (Jeffrey Donovan).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The film is completely entertaining.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers