1981
Directed by Warren Beatty
This is a film that I really could have enjoyed had it not been so damn long that it even needed an intermission. Curse Beatty's self indulgence.
Louise Bryant meets the idealistic John Reed at a lecture. His views fascinate her and
the two begin an affair, each becoming more radically liberal in their writing and political opinions. Their relationship continues to develop despite the fact that neither are too willing to give up their independence. They go through many ups and downs and heaven help us, we are only at intermission.
With the House of Un-American Activities Committee all up in Hollywood's ass throughout the 1950s, it is cool and unusual to see an honest film about leftist politics. Still, why did it have to be over three hours? Personally, I didn't feel as though their romance was that compelling. It was hard to want the two main characters to end up together when they seemed incapable of being faithful to each other.
Might be worth a watch, but I don't know if I can recommend three hours of Warren Beatty intensity in good conscience.
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
Gene Hackman did 100 takes of the scene where his character tells Louise that she lost her job.
Diane Keaton and Warren Beatty were involved but their relationship deteriorated during filming.
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