The best kind of biopic

Rating: 10/10 (17 January 2008)

The film's title suggests that this is a "biopic", but on hearing the plot - Capote's experience of writing his "non-fiction novel" about a Kansas murder - it is natural to think, how can this be a biopic if it only deals with a four-year period in Capote's life? What about Breakfast at Tiffany's? His sexuality? His premature death?
Yet on watching the film it becomes clear: Capote's experience in this time, and his relationship with the murderer, characterises his entire life and identity. A brilliant, intelligent treatment of the life of a brilliant, intelligent man.
Capote says in the film that he hopes "In Cold Blood" can define a new type of novel. It could be argued that this film defines a new type of biopic.