2019
Films of the year
2019
Richard Jewell
Director
Clint Eastwood
As intrigued as I was to see this, I was hesitant as in this day and age, I prefer to go to the cinema to truly escape, away from topical subjects. This story isn't exactly topical per se, having taken place about 23 years ago, but the subject of the toxicity of both government and media power will never be a thing of the past. This film is all about its performances, from Paul Walter Hauser as the title character, to Jewell's mother Bobi as played by the always stellar Kathy Bates, and the perfectly cast Sam Rockwell as Jewell's attorney and ultimately friend, this ensemble brings it home, and wow is it impactful. Never thought Mr Eastwood would make a film that would have me chocking back tears, so I can safely say that alone is a sign of this film's humanity. Highly recommended.