"Ed Wood" as tragedy

Rating: 10/10 (22 August 2002)

The only place this film failed was in the advertising, which probably represents a lack of vision into what "Ed Wood" metamorphosed into. What it isn't, is a comedy: viewers expecting a good laugh will go away disappointed. From start to finish, this brilliant work of art is a tragedy, so thoroughly overpowered by Martin Landau's inspired performance that there are more tears and bitter recriminations than smiles. Ed Wood, the self-destructive optimist may not have had the talent to survive in mainstream Hollywood, but he had the heart. His story is legend. And how many wannabe's wouldn't trade places with him? Being the "worst director of all time" is better than not being a director at all. Martin Landau gave dignity to a very beloved and underappreciated actor; Martin and Bela shared a soul for this film. One of the most inspired performances ever.