The movie stars Zac Efron, from "High School Musical" as a high school student who leaves home for Broadway and insinuates his way into the production of Welles' "Julius Caesar, and discovers the duplicitous world of showbiz.
The action takes place over a week in a young-man-comes-of-age tale. Set in New York City, 1937, a week before a bold new retelling of "Julius Caesar" at the new Mercury theater, the story follows the emotional roller coaster of a young man.
The film is directed by Richard Linklater who brought us "School of Rock", "Fast Food Nation", and "Bad News Bears." It stars: Zac Efron, Claire Danes, Christian McKay, and Ben Chaplin.
Often derided by American critics as "lucky" and of mediocre ability, Welles glaring brashness and swaggering helped him along in a world where appearance and gumption counted for a lot. Welles' most famous work was "Citizen Kane" (1941) in which he stared at 25 and "The Magnificent Ambersons" (1942) both for RKO studios. "Citizen Kane" produced, directed, and staring Orson Welles would go on to be nominated for the Oscars as producer, writer, director, and actor.
His radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" was famous for the ensuing panic when uninitiated listeners thought that a real alien invasion was happening. Though his work was hailed as being artistically creative it had varying popularity, the classic status takes time to develop, and Welles' later alcoholism tarnished his fading career.
"Me and Orson Welles" is sure to reveal a glimpse into Welles' early career and character. the view point of a young actor just starting against the backdrop of the wild and tumultuous Orson and the drama of young love, theater politics, and libertine Broadway life will provide a movie going experience not to be forgotten.
Written by Seamus Esparza
Posted November 29th, 2009 by Seamus Esparza
