Ebullient performance: just a man, but an orchestrator of genius

Rating: 7/10 (25 October 2015)

Fassbender is ebullient! The outpouring of energy is constant throughout the film. But most of the energy flows through dialogue. Sometimes it gets a bit boring because of all the talking and bickering. But at midpoint the film gains momentum and gets a bit exciting. Those who admired Birdman might also like Steve Jobs. But there is no magical realism :it's a "matter-of-fact" story.
The writing and Fassbender's performance capture the spirit of Steve Jobs: A man with a dream – fighting against whoever and whatever to get it fulfilled. Along the way he makes enemies. He makes friends. The film focuses on a specific period of time of his life—here we empathize with this character because he shows his human side. Surely he is a genius, but he has vulnerabilities and anxieties: his poor relationship with his daughter, his daughter's mother, some friends, and with himself.
I loved the "real time" filming style, feels a lot like Birdman (Oscar winning director and screenwriter Alejandro G. Iñárritu) – the camera tracking behind the actors for a this-moment-right-now feeling. Fantastic. Also, Birdman was filmed backstage and staged in a theater, sort of what Sorkin did with Steve Jobs film – it revolved around two major Apple media release events. Sorkin is the star screenplay writer of two of my favorite films: A Few Good Men and Social Network.
Winslet is the loyal assistant, who knows him and cares for him. I think in the film she also represents Steve Job's sister—who in real life was the person that influenced him to heal his relationship with his out-of-wedlock daughter.
And of course the rest of the cast is wonderful—thanks to their great acting they make all the events feel so real, and they bring the best and the worst in our protagonist.
Although boring at times, overall this film is absorbing, entertaining and heartwarming. You will walk out of the film inspired and having admiration for the man Steve Jobs, and feeling emotional connection because he had flaws and problems just like any one of us. Although the flashbacks add a dynamic element that break the monotony of the film, sometimes feels confusing.
Excellent bio-drama to watch at least once! Cheers.