Grade: B
Dalton Trumbo’s story is an interesting one. He was a screenwriter who ended up not being able to work, due to being blacklisted for being a communist. However, being as resourceful as he was, he got connections and was able to crank out several films under various pseudonyms. He won at least two Oscars, neither of which had his name on them. I had never heard of him before, but director Jay Roach, of all people (the man behind Meet the Parents, Meet the Fockers, and the Austin Powers movies), has created a skillfully-made biopic. Bryan Cranston is wonderful as the title character. After being so famously known for starring in what many believe to be one of the best television shows of all time, making us forget about that iconic character is no small feat, yet Cranston marvelously disappears into Trumbo, and is a delight to watch. Many familiar faces populate the superb supporting cast, which includes Diane Lane, Helen Mirren, Roger Bart, John Goodman, and Louis CK. I began reading the lukewarm 2 1/2 star review on Roger Ebert’s website, but stopped before I got halfway through. I don’t know what was factual, or whether these real-life people were accurately portrayed, and I don’t care. Trumbo is effective and fun to watch.
Grade: B
Film Reviews by Mark 
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