164. Conspiracy

164. (20 Aug) Conspiracy (2001, Frank Pierson) 58



With everyone playing the same nationality, it seems not everyone got the memo on which accent they're meant to have. That problem aside, this talky drama's matter-of-factness serves to increase the tension. It's deeply unsettling watching accomplished performers Kenneth Branagh and Stanley Tucci's steeliness in discussing the "final solution" against the Jews. Colin Firth's fiery turn is the clear standout here. Even though his film is told in real time and set mostly with the actors around a table, Pierson makes this a distinctly cinematic experience in feeling and appearance.

151. Warm Springs

151. (13 Aug) Warm Springs (2005, Joseph Sargent) 51



Warm Springs tells a more dramatic tale of FDR's battle against polio than Sunrise at Campobello. This look at an unfaithful, sad sack Franklin and chilly Eleanor feels overly critical of the pair. In an attempt to keep them relatable, this repeatedly ventures into mawkish territory where a teary-eyed FDR is repeatedly confronted for feeling sorry for himself. During such scenes, Joseph Sargent does nothing to conceal that he's making a movie in tone and appearance that's for the small screen.

Kenneth Branagh gives a convincing turn as Franklin while Cynthia Nixon is more teeth than performer as Eleanor. Kathy Bates is amiable in a supporting role while Jane Alexander, who bested her for the Emmy, is not noteworthy in the slightest.

463. My Week with Marilyn

463. (13 Nov) My Week with Marilyn (2011, Simon Curtis)* 56



While Kenneth Branagh and Julia Ormond are completely unbelievable as Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, Michelle Williams immediately convinces us she's inhabiting the role of Marilyn Monroe. She gets everything right, particularly Marilyn's deer in the headlights look. Singing her own songs and recreating some iconic moments, it's easy to see how she got into the Best Actress discussion early on.

The film itself isn't much to speak of. Joyce Carol Oates' novel Blonde would've been better to adapt since this offers only so much insight and ultimately is just a tired celebrity encounter story. But for what it is, it's an enjoyable look into a bygone era of filmmaking. Oddly enough, the film never feels cinematic. All those comparisons to TV movies are apt. Eddie Redmayne and Judi Dench also offer worthwhile performances.