2 Jacks

There is no question that not knowing the Tolstoy story "Two Hussars" will mean you will miss half the humor and irony in 2 Jacks. Read Two Hussars, it is a quick read short story, and good translations are free on the web, and then enjoy this film

Writer/Director Bernard Rose continues in his series of Tolstoy adaptations with his latest Two Jacks, starring Danny Huston and Jack Huston. Danny Huston plays once successful and revered Hollywood director Jack Hussar. Upon his return to Los Angeles, Jack hopes to procure financing for his newest project. Jack with, his nightly attendance to glamorous parties and continuous smoking make him a classic Hollywood filmmaker. But he is not without a bit of compassion or clever thinking. Following a lifetime later is Jack's son, who shares both his name and passion for filmmaking. Not to mention his charm and reputation. Jack Jr. as his journey begins also aspires to procure financing for his filmmaking debut.

The two Jack's do well to carry themselves with confidence and a touch of arrogance in some cases, but not without sympathy or flaw. The cinematography speaks with an artistic new wave cinema vérité style. The color is tinted in Jack Sr. scenes giving the impression of a time in film long gone. Unfortunately, this sort of filmmaking is not for everyone. However I found this to be done due to the unique vision of the director.

For those familiar with the style or Roses previous work, Two Jacks is sure to please with its solid performances and artistic storytelling.

Director Bernard Rose teams up with Danny Huston for their third Tolstoy adaptation following Ivans XTC(2003) and The Kreutzer Sonata(2008) in the indie comedy drama: Two Jacks. Based on the short story of The Two Hussars, it is the tale of . Legendary film director Jack Hussar returns to Hollywood after a long absence looking to finance for his next film. He drinks freely, attends glamorous parties, romances beautiful Diana and wins his financing in a poker game. Years later, his son arrives in Hollywood to make his directorial debut, and it is clear that he aspires to live up to his father's reputation.

Rose chooses Hollywood as the backdrop for this study of what goes into creating an impression. And how apt.Danny Huston gives a rousing performance as the chain smoking, self absorbed, washed up director whose legend and persona are more revered than his actual talent. Jack Huston's portrayal of the Jack Hussar Jr. is a subtle, nuanced presentation of youthful bravado and insecurity. Unlike Joe Wright's recent grandiose, cinematic adaptation of Anna Karenina (2012), Two Jacks stays true to Rose's 'high art/ low-fi' style, fast camera work and quick edits are reminiscent of European cinema and the French New Wave. Rose's direction constantly points to the characters and keeps you engaged. Don't get me wrong, there is plenty to look at; the costumes designed by Julia Clancey are spectacular, the photography is quirky and captivating. The performances by a stellar cast that also boasts Jacqueline Bisset as the old Diana and Richard Portnow as Lorenzo, the mafiaso looking producer.

This is Rose's fourth film of his Tolstoy series and arguably the best. It is not just the alternative, indie Tolstoy adaptation, it is by far the most interesting, intelligent and entertaining. Well worth a watch.