One of the great American actors, John Malkovich celebrates his birthday today, December 9th. Starring in classic dramas like “The Glass Menagerie” (1987), “Of Mice and Men” (1992), “Dangerous Liaisons” (1988), Malkovich also doesn’t shy away from action films like “In the Line of Fire” (1993) and “The Man in the Iron Mask” (1998).
Today, however, let's examine two of his comedies.
“Being John Malkovich” (1999) and “The Great Buck Howard” (2008) are very different films, but both offer terrific and unique performances by the man celebrating his 58th birthday today.
“Being John Malkovich” (1999) 5 / 5 stars - This highly original dark comedy - directed by Spike Jones and written by Charlie Kaufman - is a movie-lover’s delight which delves into one of the most bizarre plots you’ll ever see on the big screen.
For those who don’t know the story, I’ll refrain from giving away the surprises, and dance around it instead.
In order to pay the bills, Craig Schwartz (John Cusack), a struggling and unemployed puppeteer, finds an office job in the most ergonomically-challenged workplace in recorded history and makes a startling discovery.
Craig's wife, Lotte (played by Cameron Diaz who is almost unrecognizable in a purposely-awful wig) enthusiastically joins her husband on his new adventure, and Catherine Keener earned a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her role as Craig’s cold, but spirited and sexy co-worker.
Of course, at the center of it all is John Malkovich, and he plays himself while trapped in an insane set of circumstances.
This film might be too “out there” for some, but packed with tons of creative moments, “Being John Malkovich” offers a barrage of shake-your-head quips and big ideas which you won’t soon forget.
“The Great Buck Howard” (2008) 4 / 5 stars - “I love this town!”
Those are the genuine words declared during each show by the performing mentalist, the one and only, great Buck Howard (John Malkovich) in writer/director Sean McGinly’s wonderful gem.
Featured 61 times on "The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson", Buck Howard was a national celebrity during yesteryear (or yesterdecade).
He works in more modest venues in Bakersfield, CA or Akron, OH these days, but Buck still loves performing his act.
With some magic tricks, some hypnosis, some stand-up, and a tune or two on the piano, his loyal (although smaller number of) fans appreciate his efforts.
Smaller crowds or not, Buck still needs a personal assistant and hires early 20-something Troy (Colin Hanks) to help with all the thankless details.
Troy certainly has his hands full with his particular and demanding new boss, but meets an attractive and smart public relations manager, Valerie (Emily Blunt), who helps soften his bumpy ride.
Hanks is solid as the wet-behind-the-ears kid who learns about life on this showbiz journey, and Malkovich is absolutely terrific as the talented entertainer.
Complete with an orange suit, a demonstrative handshake, near-OCD rituals, and a quirky and sometimes abrasive persona, Malkovich delivers an engaging performance as this most unique character.
I love this movie!
“Being John Malkovich” and “The Great Buck Howard” are rated R and PG, respectively, and both are available on DVD, Blu-ray and Netflix.
