"Mank": Movie Review
Written By Alex Greenbaum
"Mank" is a wonderfully complex composite of 1930's Hollywood. The film is able to showcase a cognizant analysis of the internal dynamics and political affairs that affected the development of "Citizen Kane". Director David Fincher ("Fight Club", "The Social Network") and screenplay writer Jack Fincher (David Fincher's father who passed away in 2003) develop a stingingly accurate portrayal of the '30s with serious poise and light sophistication. While "Mank" does falter in its introduction and ending sequences, it's writing surely makes up for its uneven flaws.
Herman J. Mankiewicz (Gary Oldman) maneuvers Hollywood executives, slimy political dealings, and ego-driven film directors, all the while trying to complete his new film, "Citizen Kane", which he wrote.
Fincher's black and white aesthetic pulled off with digital film grain pops off the screen with strong visual intent. That's in large part due to Erik Messerschmidt's engaging cinematography that blends flawlessly into the snappy writing and forward-thinking script. Jack Fincher's razor-sharp, Oscar-worthy screenplay elevates somewhat stale material to levels of unwavering delight, rarely straying away from its entertaining, often tongue in cheek tone.
Oldman is his usual superb self, but it's Amanda Seyfried as Marion Davies and Lily Collins as Rita Alexander that are surprisingly lovely in their respective roles. The characters and relationships however feel somewhat underwritten by design, which can lead to some immersion-breaking segments. That being said, the solid acting across the board further solidifies the outstanding writing infused into its plethora of charming components.
"Mank" is not David Fincher's masterpiece nor does it try to be. Its convoluted narrative exists mainly for the dedicated cinema enthusiasts while also deliberately adding a layer of necessary commentary and insight into the tumultuous times of the '30s. The quick banter and meaningful dialogue are what ultimately sets this genuine love letter to Hollywood apart, resulting in one of the more entertaining films you can find this holiday season.
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