George Clooney's Star Power Can't Save Jay Kelly from Its Somber, One-Note Tone
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In Jay Kelly, the latest Netflix release, director Noah Baumbach turns the lens on Hollywood, but the result is a film that feels thin and stretched at times. The movie follows Jay Kelly, a movie star played by George Clooney, as he navigates a crisis and grapples with the price of stardom. Clooney's performance is a highlight, bringing a sense of authenticity to the role. However, the film's tone is decidedly one-note, pensive, and moody, lacking the self-aware irony and situational comedy that defined Baumbach's earlier work. The film's premise is generous in spirit, but its execution is marred by a thin script that fails to grasp its subject matter. The story meanders at times, but Clooney brings a sense of focus to the film, infusing it with his physical presence and persona. The supporting cast, including Adam Sandler and Laura Dern, deliver nuanced performances, but the film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. Despite its flaws, Jay Kelly is a film that is worth watching, particularly for Clooney's performance. The film's cinematography and score are also noteworthy, capturing the beauty of the Italian countryside. However, the film's failure to reflect on the state of filmmaking and the creative process is a notable omission, given the current landscape of the industry. Ultimately, Jay Kelly feels like a film stuck in the middle, lacking a clear direction or message. It's a shame, given the talent involved, but Clooney's star power can't save the film from its somber, one-note tone. As the film comes to a close, it's a fitting irony that it was released on Netflix, the same day the platform made a landmark acquisition of Warner Bros. The film's lack of reflection on the medium itself is a missed opportunity, but it's a testament to the complexities of the industry.
