Brilliant

Rating: 10/10 (26 May 2005)

As a committed non-fan of Leonardo DiCaprio, I was taken by surprise by his excellent performance in The Aviator. Scorcese also scores after the Gangs of New York failure.
Cate Blanchett is wonderful as Katherine Hepburn. Her mannerisms seemed forced until I realized that her portrayal of Hepburn was more than superficial.
DiCaprio as Howard Hughes conquers a difficult role. Hughes suffered from paranoia; he was also obsessive-compulsive with a fear of germs.
The film masterfully shows how this illness progressed from minor eccentricity to major disability.
This film is about more than one man's inner demons. The aviation side of the story is fascinating.
All aspects of The Aviator are stunning. I loved the soundtrack, dialogue, costumes, and direction.