Hail, Caesar! is the latest project from the minds of Joel & Ethan Coen and does not disappoint. In a type of Michael Clayton-esque character, a Hollywood fixer Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin) works to keep his studios’ stars in line and to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. His biggest test comes when a major motion picture is interrupted when its main star Baird Whitlock (George Clooney) who plays Caesar is kidnapped and held for ransom.
The quality cameo list only supported the uniqueness of this comedy. My favorites were Channing Tatum as movie star Burt Gurney and Ralph Fiennes as reknowned drama director Laurence Laurentz. Tatum’s character lives a double life as an America movie star and a Russian communist in secret. The comedy provided by him and Fiennes was simply outstanding.
Whenever Mannix needed someone to take the rap for anything, he turned to Joseph Silverman (Jonah Hill). All things were in silence, he was the celebrated 6th man that doubles as a lifesaving notary and fallback guy. In the film, he very boldy adopted a child that already had a parent, and bravely gave it up for adoption so the mother could adopt it back (so bold… So bold).
If you’re a fan of Michael Clayton and O’ Brother Where Art Thou you will definitely love this movie. Subtle and intellectual comedy at every turn! 8.5 out of 10.
-Jon J.