So close...

Rating: 7/10 (16 July 2005)

Scorsese for me has always been one of those directors capable of bringing together actors of all different backgrounds and character and working them into a story effortlessly. His grasp of direction is usually flawless, artistic but always controlled. Yet he has never, again for me, produced a single piece of work I would call complete despite some fantastic performances from various actors.
This is yet another in the long list of 'so close'.
The film is good, great by many standards. But the story is weak, even if the central character is engrossing (and Di Caprio - who hasn't had a good role since Gilbert Grape - shows at last some of his talent by giving a great performance) and the supporting cast so strong. It just isn't carried anywhere (few biopics ever are though, "Chaplin" really is the only one that springs to mind).
I do recommend it, I rate it highly enough to give it a 7 and the closing half an hour is great - but there's no ending to speak of.