Hollywoodland, the neo-noir film that was released in theaters on September 8, 2006, masterfully delves into the lingering mystery surrounding the death of George Reeves (Ben Affleck), the beloved actor who brought Superman to television screens. The film unfolds through a captivating dual narrative.
On one hand, it follows private detective Louis Simo (Adrien Brody), a morally ambiguous but determined investigator hired to look into Reeves’s apparent suicide.
On the other, the film chronicles Reeves’s life and struggles, from his early career to his rise to fame as the Man of Steel, and his complicated relationships with studio executive Eddie Mannix (Bob Hoskins) and his married lover, Toni Mannix (Diane Lane).
The plot weaves these two timelines together, creating a rich tapestry of Hollywood’s dark underbelly, where fame, ambition, and secrets are a dangerous cocktail.
The film’s strength lies in its meticulous attention to detail and its mesmerizing performances.
Affleck delivers a career-defining turn as Reeves, capturing the actor’s charm, vulnerability, and quiet desperation as his career stalls after Superman. His portrayal is both sympathetic and deeply human, showing a man trapped by his most famous role.
Brody is equally compelling as the cynical Simo, grounding the film with his gritty and relentless pursuit of the truth.
Robin Tunney, Kathleen Robertson, Lois Smith, Molly Parker and Joe Spano round out the cast.
The film’s stylish, moody direction, reminiscent of classic film noir, perfectly complements its themes of deception and corruption.
Affleck was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture, but Eddie Murphy won for his performance in Dreamgirls.
Ben Affleck and Diane Lane in Hollywoodland (Photo/Focus Features)
Reception for Hollywoodland
Hollywoodland grossed $6 million on its opening weekend, finishing in second place at the box office.
The film would gross $16.8 million worldwide.
Legacy
The legacy of Hollywoodland is defined by its success as a critical re-evaluation of a Hollywood legend. It is not just a mystery; it’s a poignant character study that explores the fleeting nature of fame and the darker side of the golden age of cinema.
The film sparked renewed interest in the Reeves case and is widely regarded as one of Affleck’s finest performances. It remains a smart, atmospheric, and compelling piece of filmmaking that stands as a tribute to the allure and tragedy of Hollywood’s unwritten stories.
