The Romance and Politics of Old Hollywood

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Last Tycoon
–

Genre: Drama, Romance
Year Released: 1976, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 3m
Director(s): Elia Kazan
Writer(s): F. Scott Fitzgerald, Harold Pinter
Cast: Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, Robert Mitchum, Tony Curtis, Ray Milland, Jeanne Moreau, Donald Pleasence, Dana Andrews, Peter Strauss, Theresa Russell, Ingrid Boulting, Tige Andrews, John Carradine, Jeff Corey, Angelica Huston, Seymour Cassel
Where To Watch: available now; order here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step back in time with THE LAST TYCOON, Elia Kazan's loving tribute to Hollywood's golden era. Anchored by Robert De Niro's dynamic portrayal of Monroe Stahr, a studio chief inspired by the legendary Irving Thalberg of MGM, this film is a cinematic excursion through the highs and lows of movie-making. Drama, romance, and political intrigue intertwine, offering a rare peek behind Hollywood's glitzy façade.

THE LAST TYCOON lifts the cover of the intricate tapestry of 1930s Hollywood, showcasing its studio system's glamor and stark realities. In a role that seems crafted just for him, De Niro encapsulates the essence of Stahr, a character brimming with ambition and subtle vulnerability. He navigates the choppy waters of Hollywood politics and the confrontations of stars like Tony Curtis, Jeanne Moreau, Robert Mitchum, Jack Nicholson, Donald Pleasence, and more, painting a vivid picture of a bygone cinematic era.

Despite a cast that could light up any marquee, THE LAST TYCOON stumbles in certain areas. Its adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's prose sometimes fails to hit the mark, especially in the portrayal of Kathleen Moore by Ingrid Boulting. Her character, crucial to the film's romantic subplot, needs more depth to engage the audience, leaving this narrative aspect a tad underdeveloped. It was an intriguing experience because it felt like there was more to her character than we saw. I wonder if the script was cut down or if the film itself was edited before its initial release.

The film sparkles in its authentic depiction of the Hollywood studio system. It feels like a behind-the-scenes tour of a time when creativity and business intertwined in a complex dance. The deliberate pace and faithful adherence to its literary roots might test some viewers' patience, but they also lend the film a genuine period authenticity. I can’t help but go back and forth with the cast, and I don’t know if they added authenticity because of being Hollywood stars or if the fact that they are makes it less believable.

Kazan's film navigates the industry's personal dramas and professional challenges. It delves into the political undercurrents of the era, with a particular focus on anti-communist sentiments, adding layers of depth and context to the storyline.

The ending of THE LAST TYCOON is a true gem. Stahr’s final moments on screen poignantly symbolize his situation perfectly, and at the same time, it’s a symbol of Kazan's farewell to the filmmaking world. This moment, rich in symbolism, stands out as a highlight in a film that adeptly captures the essence of Hollywood's golden age.

THE LAST TYCOON may not capture the emotional intensity of Fitzgerald's novel and occasionally falters in pacing. However, it stands as a noteworthy film achievement. De Niro's captivating performance and the film's detailed exploration of Hollywood's studio system and political landscape make it a compelling watch for many viewers. This film goes beyond storytelling; it immerses us in the lost world of cinematic glamor and the realities of its creation.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]