Rating of
3.5/4
Cautionary biopic about suspicion vs. substance.
Indyfreak - wrote on 12/16/19
No one except for Richard Jewell, his mother, and his lawyer comes out looking good. The FBI, the media, public opinion. It’s disconcerting but if you have a good lawyer, you may stand a chance.
Paul Walter Hauser is excellent as Richard Jewell, the heroic security guard who only wound up unfairly becoming a suspect at the Atlanta Olympic bombing. His psychological and mental toll from the media circus is riveting stuff. Hauser plays the part as well meaning if overzealous; reportedly Jewell’s real-life demeanor. We cheer at his bravery, cringe at his awkwardness, and root for his exoneration.
Sam Rockwell is very good as his acquaintance that takes up the defense as his lawyer. It’s too bad about the controversy surrounding Olivia Wilde’s character since she’s also good in this.
As far as Eastwood’s recent biographical films go, it’s a very good movie which takes an underdog approach to the main character.
