Fascinating Entertainment but Is It Based on Fact ?

Rating: 10/10 (2 January 2005)

This was an enjoyable, yet depressing film with some shocking scenes. The opening scene seemed to put the blame for Hughes'neuroses on his mother. Is this based on fact or is it just added to explain why young Howard became a schizophrenic and a hypochondriac? Did Ava Gardner really shave him and clean-him up before he testified before the committee or is this fiction too? The airborne scenes were breathtaking. I agree that the ending was too abrupt. I am eager to see a sequel. Leonardo was great.Alan Alda as the corrupt Senator was terrific, too. I would like to know more about Howards' young life. The stereo; especially during the flight sequences were fantastic. I highly recommend this.