Simone Review
by Shannon Patrick Sullivan (shannon AT morgan DOT ucs DOT mun DOT ca)August 27th, 2002
SIMONE (2002) / ***
Directed by Andrew Niccol, from his screenplay. Starring Al Pacino, Catherine Keener, Rachel Roberts. Running time: 116 minutes. Rated PG for mature theme by the MFCB. Reviewed on August 27th, 2002.
By SHANNON PATRICK SULLIVAN
Synopsis: Director Viktor Taransky (Pacino) has just been fired by his ex-wife Elaine (Keener) after failing to placate his arrogant star (Winona Ryder). Then, unexpectedly, a deceased fan bequeathes Taransky an amazing new computer program. With it, he can manufacture a stunningly lifelike actress, Simone (Roberts), to insert into his movies. Simone becomes Viktor's ticket back to the big time -- but will she take on a life of her own?
Review: It's not hard to tell that "Simone" writer/director Niccol was also the scribe behind "The Truman Show". Both films satirise not the entertainment industry itself, per se, but more the way that that industry is perceived by the general public. "Simone" is an examination of the nature of celebrity -- the manner in which stars can be "made" (literally, in this case) and the fact that, too often, a star's work is praised not because of its quality but simply because of their celebrity status. One of "Simone"'s most perceptive segments sees Taransky try to destroy Simone by placing her in a patently awful, degrading movie. But the people watching that film cheer anyway. Why? Because it stars Simone. Niccol mines this premise for a lot of laughs, and easily glosses over the fundamental implausibility of his storyline. But unlike "The Truman Show", which hit all the right beats and built brilliantly to its climax, "Simone" eventually runs out of steam. The second half lacks a tangible hook to maintain audience interest, hindered by the fact that the movie lacks an engaging set of characters. Pacino is good as Taransky, but is at the mercy of the plot. Keener's Elaine is too flimsy and pedestrian to make much of an impression. Nonetheless, "Simone" holds up as a witty commentary which some viewers may find hits uncomfortably close to home.
Copyright © 2002 Shannon Patrick Sullivan.
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