“Confessions of a Dangerous Mind” shows off not only George Clooney‘s brilliant directorial debut, but also proves that Sam Rockwell is, if not already, the next big thing.
Rockwell (“Welcome to Collinwood”) stars in the film as TV producer Chuck Barris, who along with his game show creations “The Dating Game” and “The Newlywed Game,” is most known for “The Gong Show.” At the end of his career, Barris wrote an autobiography chronicling the events of his life, adding that during his time in the TV business, he also doubled as a CIA agent by night.
While many may find this presumption far-fetched, screenwriter Charlie Kaufman (“Being John Malkovich” and “Adapatation”) makes Barris’ top secret work while escorting the winners of his game shows fairly believable, daring to question if Barris really was telling the truth.
Clooney also interviews many people connected to Barris past like Dick Clark, “The Dating Game” host Jim Lange and “The Gong Show” favorite Jaye P. Morgan, all of them commenting on Barris in both good and bad ways.
While the film is overwhelmingly boring at some points, Clooney seems to always bring the story back to focus and continue on. While his role is comparatively small, as is Julia Roberts‘, their presence in “Confessions” helps to make this a more plausible hit.
Rockwell is simply amazing as Barris, presenting him as the low-life downer trying to find his passage to the world of cool, inevitably becoming a sex and drug-crazed addict only out to please the common TV audience with whatever works.
While “Confessions” may not be for just anyone out for a trip to the movies, it still holds its own in the film world with a fresh script, sharp acting and a wonderful directorial debut by Clooney. If nothing else, see it for Rockwell’s smashing performance.
3.5 / 5 Stars
Starring: Sam Rockwell, George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Drew Barrymore, Michael Cera,
Maggie Gyllenhaal
Director: George Clooney
