J. Edgar Hoover earned a shady reputation in American history moving from a lowly field agent to the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Not only did Hoover recreate the system that the U.S. handled crime, but he gained a reputation for digging up dirt on some of America’s most powerful politicians.
Clint Eastwood’s latest directorial effort, J. Edgar, with a strong performance from Leonardo DiCaprio as the controversial figure, successfully captures every side of the brilliant, yet at times bizarre Hoover. However, the film, much like Hoover’s own retelling of his life, seems no more than a series of provocative stories that hold little actual meaning.
The 137 minute runtime takes a lot of twists and turns, causing the film to lack any momentum or build tension. In an attempt to cover over 50 years of history, many jump cuts take away from the developing personalities of the characters and the progressive successes of the up and coming FBI.
The film covers a broad spectrum of influences on Hoover’s life, including a chilling performance from Judi Dench as his mother and a complicatd friendship with his friend Clyde Tolson, played by a somewhat dolled up Armie Hammer.
As for the main character’s performance, DiCaprio nailed the role down to the physical mannerisms and elocution. But despite DiCaprio’s five-star acting, the melodramatic script work makes even the most profound moments fall flat, and make Hoover’s relationship with Tolson awkward and forced.
Fingers can only be pointed at Eastwood for the film’s shortcomings. Supporting roles are portrayed with compelling performances, including Naomi Watts playing Hoover’s career-long secretary, Helen Gandy.
While J. Edgar provides an up close and personal look at one of the country’s most mysterious and interesting figures in history, Eastwood failed to provide a compelling plot to bring viewer in and intrigue them with history.
Though some moviegoers will find themselves enjoying the personal side of something that seems so flat, J. Edgar will fall short of offering anything beyond the same speculative picture of Hoover that has dominated public opinion for nearly half a century.
Critic’s Review: 2 out of 5 stars
Chelsea Daubar can be reached at chelsea.daubar@spartans.ut.edu.
“I’m taking her to the library of Congress. I’m going to show her how I organized it.”
“That’ll make her…*removes sunglasses*…. Dewey”
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