Wolff rating: GOOD
Plot summary: A (speculative) look at the last days of director James Whale. Also, the birth of a relationship between an old, witty man and a not-very-bright young man.
Biased, pithy comments: It's amazing what you can do with a talky movie that has very little action and very gentle comedy. Perhaps just a few stunningly good one-liners, a little shouting. However, McKellen and Fraser ease their way through the excellent script like pros---which they are. Redgrave is excellent as the harsh-speaking maid, and even Davidovitch has a moment in the sun. This is a movie that glories in acting and the people of Hollywood, finding their fears, inescurities, and loves. Certainly worth seeing, though perhaps a quick rental of ``Frankenstein'' and ``Bride of Frankenstein'' might be in order first.
How many times I have seen it: x1
Starring: Ian McKellen, Brendan Fraser, Lynn Redgrave, Lolita Davidovich.
Directed by: Bill Condon