"Being John Malkovich" - A DVD Movie Review

Rating: 8/10 (12 August 2005)

Clearly, this film, is one of the oddest, most interesting, eclectic, and finally, one of the most original movies I have ever experienced.
"Being John Malkovich", where do you begin with a review? It took me four nights to experience it. It has some flaws, the biggest being the character played by John Cusack - replace him, and you might have the perfect diversion for a weekend of "what the hell was that"? As is, it is a movie that demands watching.
I am still reeling as I write this review. I don't know where to begin, except to say, if you are inclined to the unusual, the bizarre, and the completely unique, you might want to check this film out.
I won't even try to delve into the story, it is just too strange to relate, you have to watch it, you really do, to get it. And even then, it will leave you wondering.
Acting, of note, is the amazing performance by John Malkovich . . . as himself, and many others. Quirky, egoistic, vulnerable, and self-indulgent, I think John's portrayal as himself and more is, well, it is very very different, and very brave and challenging. Cameron Diaz, how could they make her look homely? But they do, and Cameron is every bit the odd foil to Malkovich's character. Then there is the woman who plays the crux, Maxine, outstandingly performed by Catherine Keener, who in her lynch pin character, ties the film together. I would be remiss in leaving out the aging Orson Bean and the cynical young and then old Charlie Sheen. You simply have to see them in this film to appreciate.
Unless you are an oddball, a thinker, and want to experience something entirely different, I can't recommend this film. But if you are so inclined, I would highly recommend this delve into the possibilities of "what if you could be John Malkovich?"
I give it 3 and 1/2 stars. Good stuff.