an impressive showing from actor/director James Franco

Rating: Null/10 (24 September 2018)

In the late 1990s, Greg Sestero is an aspiring young actor in San Francisco looking to fulfill his dream. While taking an acting class at Shelton Studios, he happens to cross paths with the enigmatic Tommy Wiseau, an over-the-top, independently wealthy actor with whom he forms an unorthodox friendship. Within mere months, Tommy convinces Greg to move to Los Angeles to fulfill their dreams, but with both of them struggling to make it into the spotlight, Tommy decides to produce The Room, an autobiographical film that will eventually receive wide regard as one of the worst films ever made. How much of it is actual fact versus fiction is difficult to discern, but this is still a riveting story with intriguing characters, colorful acting, and a good balance of compelling human drama and laugh-out loud humor. A strong outing from director James Franco who truly captures the essence of Wiseau, and a good showcase for younger brother Dave as his long-suffering best friend. A solid supporting cast is just another highlight. ***