Wednesday, September 28, 2005

Serious cinema

Now that the Toronto Film Festival has ended, all the award-contending films are screening here in town. So far, I've been impressed.

"Good Night, and Good Luck" is terrific. Directed by George Clooney -- who also co-stars -- its a look at Edward R. Murrow and his influential news program, "See It Now." Both he and the show railed against Sen. Joseph McCarthy during the height of the Communist scare and blacklisting in the States.

Murrow is played by veteran character actor David Strathairn, who's poised, stoic presence makes him an Oscar nom in my book. One of the best performances of the year, in one of the best movies of the year.

Speaking of Oscar noms for best actor, Phillip Seymour Hoffman is a front-runner in the category for his portrayal of Truman Capote in "Capote." Some people like the movie a lot more than me, but his perf is unquestionably great.

More to come soon...

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