Amazing performance

Rating: 9/10 (23 December 1999)

Jim Carrey's sensational performance as Andy Kaufman is at the heart of "Man on the Moon." In fact, it's the whole movie, which doesn't amount to much more than re-creations of Kaufman's greatest hits. Kaufman's offstage life is not as compellingly presented. Those who were hoping that the movie would shed some light on this most eccentric of performers will be disappointed. Still, the movie is well worth seeing for Carrey's uncanny impersonation (some have said "channeling") of Kaufman. When he imitates Elvis, he's not just imitating Elvis -- he's imitating Kaufman imitating Elvis. And his portrayal of "Tony Clifton," Kaufman's obnoxious alter ego, is a comic masterpiece. So, you will be greatly entertained, but still clueless as to what made Kaufman tick.