American Splendor Review
by Homer Yen (homer_yen AT yahoo DOT com)September 2nd, 2003
"American Splendor" - Comic Genius
by Homer Yen
(c) 2003
Harvey Pikar is not a happy person. His existence is a drab, never-ending series of disappointments, unfulfilled yearnings, and a general affront to his sanity. Sometimes it looks as if he wants to just lay down and die. Sometimes, he appears to want to throw his hands up in disgust. But most of the time, he looks like he wants to just focus his angst and to lash out at the world around him. Watching him, you'd discount him as being a good person. But there's something oddly affecting about this irascible guy that keeps you wondering what makes him tick.
Whatever that may be, Harvey never seems to be able to put his finger on it. Life is just too complex, and his neuroses and insecurities are documented and illustrated within the pages of his underground comic book, "American Splendor." Now, his life story has been turned into this biopic of the same name. Here, we get a peek into his tribulations, ruminations, and celebrations.
"American Splendor" is a well-constructed film, fresh with ideas and clever perspectives. The presentation is a combination of real-life dramatizations co-mingled with creative liberties. There is a distinct documentary feel as the real-life Harry Pekar provides personal perspective through voice-overs. There are also scenes in which he muses and reminisces about events that have shaped his life, from general malcontent to a tolerable grump. There are also nicely envisioned scenes in which real-life blends into comic strip panels and vice versa.
Actor Paul Giamatti-as-Harry is a dead ringer in tone of voice, looks, and sour demeanor. His histrionics, the script, and the setting provides an undeniable sense of truth and bitterness that underscores the movie. There is, for example, an interesting section devoted to Harvey's dalliance with the David Letterman show in the 80's. But his brutal propensity for truth and sense of independence eventually ended that relationship.
The film also chronicles several other people and events that have influence his life. This includes his friendship with the prolific comic artist Robert Crumb (James Urbaniak), who was eager to illustrate Harvey's vision. We watch his courtship with eventual wife Joyce (Hope Davis). We also root for Harvey during his dogged fight with cancer, which you can find chronicled in his award-winning book, Our Cancer Year.
"American Splendor" feels like a solid film with solid performances. But I have to wonder how appealing the subject material is. I am now more inclined to look for his comic books the next time I'm in the local bookstore. But the film seems more custom-made for those who appreciate Harvey Pekar and his wonderful work. This kind of pseudo-biopic relies on one's existing affinity with the subject matter. But did anyone really like or even see similar films like "Auto-Focus" (about Bob Crane) or "Confessions of a Dangers Mind" (about Chuck Barris)?
If imitation is the greatest form of flattery, then Harry Pekar should be thrilled with this product. But should the rest of us flock to see this well-made film? Well, perhaps Harvey will chronicle his movie experience in the next "American Splendor" volume. And that would probably be enough for most of us.
Grade: B
S: 0 out of 3
L: 1 out of 3
V: 1 out of 3
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