It is amazing how a superbly written persona & exemplary acting chops can elevate any piece of cinema. Denzel & Dan Gilroy achieves just that in Roman J Israel Esq. Here, audiences are presented with a complex character that is considered a savant, with humane moral convictions, yet deemed a social outlier, lacking in social finesse & interpersonal competence. In episodes where these are showcased, Denzel's performance captivates, as he impresses with his delivery of legal jargon & was an instant draw, when he challenges the legal system obscenities with unfiltered banters. Of course, Denzel's accolade-worthy feat stands to give justice to Gilroy's worthy character-study of sorts, that has the central character weave through familiar hardships, temptations and its' inescapable ramifications. From these, the ensuing persona transformation was then the picture's most affecting tragedy. Note however, that reverence for this picture doesn't quite compare to Gilroy's 2014 pièce de résistance, Nightcrawler. I say this, as there isn't much in terms of magnitude & its has gaps in its narrative, including closing themes that felt unearned and rushed.
Overall, the ideas shared in Roman J Israel Esq is intriguing to say the least, and one that benefits from Denzel and Gilroy's filmmaking combo. It isn't among the year's best in class, but its drama has its moments.
Overall, the ideas shared in Roman J Israel Esq is intriguing to say the least, and one that benefits from Denzel and Gilroy's filmmaking combo. It isn't among the year's best in class, but its drama has its moments.
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