For a couple of hours last year, I thought Clint Eastwood had lost it.
Never could I have imagined the great man being responsible for such a wreck of a movie as Hereafter.
Then, largely because I was in such anticipation, I read a couple of reviews of J Edgar. The critics panned it and I felt my heart fall heavy.
I shouldn't have worried.
The combo of Clint and Leonardo Dicaprio carry the day. J Edgar is a fine movie, indeed.
In fact, I am little bamboozled as to why is has been so underrated when the feeble biopic of Margaret Thatcher, has been so undeservedly lauded.
Then I discovered a potential reason - the controversy surrounding Hoover's sexuality.
Apparently, US historians are at odds about whether Hoover was gay and over his relationship with his deputy Clyde Tolson. Eastwood's movie leaves little doubt about it.
I guess that my scant knowledge of American domestic history helps here because I can't point to any obvious discrepancies in the way that I did with Iron Lady or W.E.
Thus, I'm left to muse on the brilliance of Dicaprio. It is another star to add to a burgeoning portfolio of brilliant performances and well selected movies.
He exudes the two sides of characters - fierce, almost paranoid determination with regard to his job and vulnerable deference to his mother - with equal aplomb.
And particular congratulation should be given to his make-up artist for the splendid job done on helping him through the ageing process.
Dicaprio commands virtually every scene but mention should be made of Armie Hammer who played Tolson with power and passion.
Judi Dench was also on top of her game as J. Edgar's mum.
So, for me anyway, J Edgar was splendid and ticked all of the boxes I hoped it would. And Dicaprio should certainly be up for an Oscar nomination.
Laughs: None
Jumps: One for me and two for Mrs W
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 8/10
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