Inspirational drama, Carrey in a new light

Rating: 8/10 (9 August 2006)

Jim Carrey (Ace Ventura) stars as Truman Burbank, a simple man who is being filmed 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, only Truman doesn't know.
For years Carrey had been lighting up screens with his wonderful comic talent in The Mask, Ace Ventura and Batman Forever. This Peter Weir comedy drama was the first role Carrey was able to give a more serious and dramatic role which earned him his first Golden Globe, showing the viewing public he could perform at a serious level, rather than constant slapstick. His sentimental portrayal of a man who wants a bit more out of life is excellent, dramatic and also a sign of hope for the watching audience of the Truman show, which was vital. Though I love Carrey's humour in previous films, I personally felt it was necessary to see a different side to him, and he pulls it off so well.
The character Truman is a real joy to watch, a symbol of hope and joy for the viewing public. Having a lot to deal with, such as a stressful job and a complicated life with the loss of a loved one puts viewers at ease as it embodies what other people go through, to watch someone else go through it with a positive energy justifies the viewing audience. Having a goal also is inspiring and a great human characteristic.
The plot is consistent with an excellent setting and idea behind it. We see typical objects and ideas associated with the reality TV genre, such as acting, props and of course the main setting for the show, which is the whole world Truman lives in, a real landmark for the reality genre and is executed brilliantly with a real sophisticated approach to it, where everyone is in certain place at certain times, which all revolve around the central protagonist, which makes the film slightly humorous to.
Great support is given from Oscar nominated Ed Harris who plays the creator of the show. Laura Linney (Love actually) also performs well as Truman's wife.
And with such a joyous and determined central protagonist, the Truman show will keep you hooked right to the inspiring and heart-warming final.