The true story of Britain's greatest painter,
the eccentric but brilliant J.M.W. Turner. BIOPIC/DRAMA
|
Mr. Turner (2014)Written and Directed by Mike Leigh
Starring Timothy Spall, Marion Bailey, Paul Jesson, Dorothy Atkinson, Martin Savage, Karl Johnson, Ruth Sheen, Lesley Manville Oscar Nominations - Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, Best Original Score (Gary Yershon) |
I had such high hopes for Mr. Turner. The trailer was beautiful and Timothy Spall finally had a chance to shine as the leading man. Imagine my surprise when the film turned out to be a dull trainwreck devoid of any actual story. Suffice it to say, I was not amused.
To be fair, Timothy Spall did deliver one hell of a performance as the eccentric British painter J.M.W. Turner. I just wish that the vehicle of his performance had actually been fleshed out more. Throughout this nearly three hour long film, we are told virtually nothing of Turner's early life or why he is the way he is. The film just takes the audience on a ride without any guidance, assuming we just know the facts off the tops of our heads. The screenplay was poorly written and had the film delivered some substance, it could have been one of the best biopics ever made. Mr. Turner is one of the biggest disappointments I've had to endure. It is a bloated, shoddily-made disaster that contains no emotion, provides no attachments, and leaves me thinking "Dear God, when will this movie be over?" Casual moviegoers would do well to avoid this movie. Biopic enthusiasts will probably hate it too. |