Hail, no!
Hollywood fixer, Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin), works for the studios, attempting to keep scandals out of the press. He must cover up leading lady DeeAnna Moran’s (Scarlett Johansson) pregnancy, and play ‘matchmaker’ for actor, Hobie Doyle (Alden Ehrenreich), who Hollywood want as their next big star. This is all in a day’s work…
The film offers a satirical viewpoint to Old Hollywood. At first, there is a lot to admire, from a showy production set, to glossy, old-style camera shots, and a great cast. While the film is visually stunning, the narrative lacks cohesion. Too many stories are taking place all at once, which makes for a messy narrative, jumping around all over the place. For the most part, George Clooney’s storyline has too much attention dedicated to it, leaving little emphasis and development for the remaining characters, who in fact, had much more to offer. Channing Tatum and Scarlett Johansson were particularly underused, deserving far more screen time. Though, the Channing Tatum dance sequence was very well done. Another concern that should be brought to light is Brolin’s character, Eddie Mannix, who wasn’t in the slightest a compelling protagonist, which only makes the film harder to engage with. In terms of humour, there were a few laughs here and there, but the majority fell into the ‘painfully unfunny’ category. A 106 minute film therefore felt 3 hours long, dragging its way to the final cut.
Hail Caesar! makes for a crowded comedy, and easily the Coen Brothers’ messiest work to date. A real disappointment. Not only is the energy missing, this beyond mediocre script is capable of putting one to sleep. Perhaps go and make yourself a Caesar Salad instead.
I was planning to watch it. Dropped the plan. Thanks for saving me 106 minutes 🙂
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No worries! It really was a disappointment. Some of their other work is much better and worthy of your time.
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This was definitely among the weaker efforts from the Coens. Hopefully they’ll return in top form soon!
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Yes, I really hope so. Such a shame regarding this one.
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I’ve never loved it when the Coens try to do an out and out comedy. Look at The Ladykillers and Intolerable Cruelty.
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It’s fun and light, even if a tad disappointing considering what we know the Coens can do. Nice review.
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Thank You! Yes, sadly rather disappointing considering their previous works! Good to hear your viewpoint though!
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I liked it. It was quirky and fun, and put a smile on my face.
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Glad it was your cup of tea!
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