The Story:
In a story that jumps between flashbacks and "modern" day, J. Edgar Hoover (Leonardo DiCaprio) recalls his early days in the Justice Department and how it soon branched into the FBI, which he would head for the rest of his life. Clyde Tolson (Armie Hammer) is promoted to his right hand man, and the two have a lasting relationship until Hoover's dying days. The movie shows Hoover's penchant for spying on everyone, and having secret files which kept him in a position of power over the Presidents.
Meh.
For a period piece, it's okay. I thought it would be more engrossing and involving than it was, at least for me.
I mean, you've got the subject of literally the most powerful man in America for over 50 years, who outlasted administrations that wanted him out of office, yet had no power to do anything about it, as they most likely had a little file hidden in Hoover's office about their misdeeds.
All of the actors do a fine job, especially DiCaprio who basically carries the film through the years in makeup and without. How his lifestyle contradicted everything people thought they knew about him, and met most of all with disapproval from his mother (Judi Dench) is probably a nugget that the President could have used to get him out of office at anytime in his career. Of course if your job is to get secrets, it only makes sense that Hoover was probably the most private man in the world.
Clint Eastwood solidly directs as usual. Again, the movie just never really grabbed me and made me want to watch. Instead, it simply played, and I paid as much, or as little attention as I felt like as the movie progressed.
Your mileage could vary!
Final Grade: C+
Rewatchability/Purchase Factor: Nope, I'm good. 2 1/2 hours was plenty.
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