Howl-2010

Director Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman

Starring James Franco

Scott’s Review #491

Reviewed October 9, 2016

Grade: B+

Howl (2010) is a compelling courtroom drama biopic starring James Franco, who is wonderfully cast.

This role, despite being in a small film with little recognition, cements Franco’s talents as an edgy actor willing to tackle challenging work rather than stick to mainstream safe fare.

Franco has become one of my favorite young actors. He is so diverse and believable in any role he takes on.

The story follows 1950s poet Allen Ginsberg and his trial to determine whether his poems were art or should be banned as indecent.

Much of the action takes place in the courtroom, and the film wisely mixes animation (in scenes of Ginsberg reading his poetry) with traditional scenes.

The film lets the viewer get to know Ginsberg’s character. He was troubled (his sexuality, delusions, stints in a mental hospital), for sure, but also had a true, authentic love of writing and poetry, which is inspiring in an age of digital technology.

Sometimes good old-fashioned words are the truest art.

Howl (2010) is an interesting little film.