‘The Critic’ Review: Dangerous Liaisons
- Ian McKellen stars as Jimmy Erskine, a drama critic in 1930s London, who lacks professional ethics despite his high standards for theater.
- The film, directed by Anand Tucker, is based on Anthony Quinn's novel 'Curtain Call' and features a plot involving blackmail and personal relationships.
- The narrative raises questions about the moral complexities of criticism and the implications of Jimmy's actions as a gay man in a repressive era.
Set in 1934 London, the film features Ian McKellen as Jimmy Erskine, a drama critic with a reputation for high standards in theater, yet he lacks professional ethics. The narrative unfolds as Jimmy, who is portrayed as a self-serving individual, engages in a blackmail scheme involving a rising actress, Nina Land, played by Gemma Arterton, and David Brooke, the new owner of the Chronicle. The film is directed by Anand Tucker and is based on Anthony Quinn's novel 'Curtain Call.' The character of Jimmy is inspired by the real-life critic James Agate, known for his sharp reviews. The screenplay, written by Patrick Marber, adds a dark edge to the story, highlighting the moral complexities of a critic who uses his influence for personal gain. As the plot thickens, Jimmy's interactions with the police put his career at risk, prompting him to devise a plan that intertwines his fate with Nina and David. Visually, the film is polished, although it features some digital enhancements. However, the character development raises questions about Jimmy's motivations and the implications of his actions, particularly as a gay man in a time when homosexuality was criminalized in Britain. This context adds depth to the narrative, suggesting that he could be more vulnerable to blackmail rather than the instigator. Ultimately, 'The Critic' explores themes of power, ethics, and the darker side of the arts, leaving audiences to ponder the consequences of a critic's influence in the theater world.