24 Jan, 2012

Josie says…

J. Edgar tells the story of the rise to power of J. Edgar Hoover (Leonardo DiCaprio), the man who built the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and championed the use of fingerprinting and forensic crime scene investigation. It is wonderfully acted by Leo and a supporting cast including Naomi Watts (playing Hoover’s long-time secretary) and Armie Hammer, playing Hoover’s right-hand man (and rumoured life-partner!) Clyde Tolson.

But, it is quite a hard film to follow as it jumps through the decades: from the 1920s, to the 60s, back to the 30s and to the 60s again. It’s probably less confusing if you went to school in America and were forced to learn all about its history, but as someone who didn’t, I found it difficult to understand in parts.
 
It’s a movie that you see for the performances alone, and for them, it’s worth it.

3 stars

Erin says…
Don’t worry if your American history isn’t up to scratch. Director Clint Eastwood makes sure the storyline provides a 101 of the events that occured, albeit quickly and as Josie said, while jumping between decades.
 
But I think J. Edgar’s biggest drawcard (aside from Leo and Armie’s incredible acting) is as a love story. While the truth of Hoover and Tolson’s relationship is still debated today (were they lovers or just close friends?), the film strongly hints that the two men were in love. At that time it was unthinkable that a man in a senior government position could be a homosexual, and openly at that. Even Hoover’s mother expresses her shame and disgust that her son might be gay, with heartbreaking effect. But whether they were ‘together’ or not, their story of love and particularly Clyde’s undying loyalty to J. Edgar will leave your cheeks wet (yes, tears were shed on my part!).

4 stars

Check out our Armie in our wrap of men to watch in 2012.

The men to watch 2012: They're gonna be huge!