Trumbo (2015)

"Trumbo" stars Bryan Cranston, Helen Mirren, Diane Lane, Louis C.K., Elle Fanning, John Goodman, and Michael Stuhlbarg. Released on November 6, 2015, the film is about a Hollywood screenwriter who gets blacklisted for being a Communist.

The film is directed by Jay Roach, who also directed films such as the Austin Powers film series, Meet the Parents, and The Campaign. It is based on the life of Hollywood screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, and it is based on the biography by Bruce Cook. I was originally planning on seeing this film last weekend, but I decided to spend the holiday weekend with my family instead. I haven't actually heard about Dalton Trumbo until I saw the trailer for the film. What interested me about this film is that it revolves around the film industry in the 1940s. Given its interesting topic and its cast, does it give the late controversial screenwriter justice?

Pros:
Solid performances from the cast. Cranston shines as the title character.

Good direction from Roach.

Decent screenplay.

Impressive cinematography.

Cons:
Pacing felt slow during the second and third acts.

The story lacked an emotional punch.
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Final thoughts: While not as memorable nor inspiring as the other biopics of 2015, "Trumbo" makes up for it with its performances (mostly from Cranston), Roach's direction, and a somewhat passable screenplay. I would have liked it a bit more if they put in a little more emotional depth in the storyline. I would recommend this film to fans of the film industry and/or to those who are familiar with Dalton Trumbo's works.

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B-