Written by Adam Mast
TRUE STORY (R)
Truth is often stranger than fiction, and “True Story” certainly gets a lot of mileage out of that adage. This film feels slightly over dramatized at times, but it’s the stuff going on just underneath the surface that makes the movie worth recommending.
In “True Story,” Jonah Hill plays journalist Michael Finkel, a down-on-his-luck New York Times columnist who finds himself out of a job after he alters—with the best of intentions—a high profile article for the prestigious newspaper. James Franco plays Christian Longo, an accused murderer who assumes Finkel’s identity after being captured by authorities. Is Longo actually guilty of the crime for which he has been accused? Finkel has an opportunity to decide for himself after Longo grants him access to all the gory details by way of a handful of intimate interview sessions.
Hill is terrific here, and this is quite the departure for him. We’ve seen the “21 Jump Street” star outside his comfort zone in movies like “Moneyball,” but without question, this is the most dramatic turn of his career thus far. As Finkel, Hill brings confidence and vulnerability in equal measure. As the shifty Longo, Franco is perfectly mysterious, and since I wasn’t really familiar with the story on which this film is based, I was never entirely sure what was making this guy tick. And quite frankly, I still don’t know what makes him tick.
Felicity Jones also does great work here as Finkel’s supportive wife, Jill. In the early moments of the movie, it appears that this might be a rather thankless role, but in the end, Jones brings the fire. Look no further than a scene in which Jill has a surprising and very satisfying exchange with Longo. It’s certainly one of the highlights of “True Story.”
As previously stated, a grim murder mystery is at the very center of this picture, and as depicted, it is a bit reminiscent of the mystery at the heart of movies like “Jagged Edge” and “Primal Fear.” However, once again, “True Story” is based on an actual incident, and that makes the proceedings a little more intriguing.
It should also be noted that while the details surrounding the murder here are rather gruesome, the film itself has virtually no gore to speak of. “True Story” utilizes the power of suggestion. So if you’re expecting something like “Silence of the Lambs,” you may walk away disappointed. Having said that though, there is a bit of a Clarice/Hannibal dynamic to the Michael/Christian bond here.
In fact, the strongest aspect of “True Story” is the dynamic between Finkel and Longo. Finkel has quite the chip on his shoulder following his departure from the New York Times, and these exclusive interviews with Longo could give him back the credibility he so desperately craves. And given Longo’s narcissistic tendencies, he too has something to gain from these meetings with Finkel. It’s the psychological power plays between these men, along with a trio of solid lead performances, that elevate this true story above the conventions of your average courtroom thriller.
