Genius (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Genius is a 2016 biographical drama that brings to life the relationship between celebrated editor Maxwell Perkins and acclaimed author Thomas Wolfe. Directed by Michael Grandage and based on A. Scott Berg’s biography Max Perkins: Editor of Genius, the film stars Colin Firth as Perkins and Jude Law as Wolfe, with notable performances from Nicole Kidman, Laura Linney, and Guy Pearce. This film captures the creative tension and intense personal dynamic that shaped some of the 20th century’s greatest literary works.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, historical context, and the best places to watch Genius online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: An Editor’s Touch on a Literary Genius
Set in 1920s New York, Genius focuses on the professional and personal relationship between Thomas Wolfe, a brilliant but undisciplined writer, and his editor Maxwell Perkins, a reserved yet deeply influential figure at Scribner’s publishing house. Perkins had already worked with literary giants like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, but Wolfe presents a unique challenge due to his unconventional writing style and prolific output.
The film begins when Wolfe brings his mammoth manuscript for Look Homeward, Angel to Perkins, who recognizes Wolfe’s talent but is overwhelmed by the sheer volume of text. What follows is a battle of wills and ideas, as Perkins painstakingly edits the manuscript, trimming down Wolfe’s verbose prose into a more concise form. Through this process, a deep bond forms between the two men, despite their contrasting personalities.
However, the intense collaboration starts to take a toll on both of them. Wolfe’s tempestuous nature strains his relationships with those around him, including his lover Aline Bernstein (Nicole Kidman), while Perkins’ dedication to Wolfe affects his home life, particularly with his wife Louise (Laura Linney). As Wolfe rises to literary fame, the cracks in their relationship begin to show, leading to questions about loyalty, creative ownership, and the cost of genius.
Exploring Themes of Creativity and Friendship
At its heart, Genius is a study of the creative process and the often tumultuous relationship between an artist and their editor. Thomas Wolfe is portrayed as a man overflowing with ideas and passion, but without the discipline to reign them in. Perkins, on the other hand, represents the quiet yet essential role of the editor in shaping raw talent into something more refined.
The film explores the themes of artistic integrity and collaboration, highlighting the fine line between nurturing a genius and restraining them. Wolfe’s need for validation and his struggle to balance personal relationships with his art are central to the film’s emotional core, while Perkins’ role as the unseen hand behind some of the greatest literary works raises questions about the value of the editor in the creative process.
The film also delves into the personal toll that creativity can take. Wolfe’s relentless pursuit of artistic achievement alienates those around him, and Perkins’ dedication to his work comes at the expense of his relationship with his family. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the darker side of genius—its isolation, its self-destructiveness, and its toll on loved ones.
Performances: Jude Law’s Larger-Than-Life Wolfe vs. Colin Firth’s Reserved Perkins
The success of Genius relies heavily on the dynamic between its two leads, and both Jude Law and Colin Firth deliver powerful performances that bring their characters to life.
Jude Law’s portrayal of Thomas Wolfe is as grand and extravagant as the author’s prose. Law captures Wolfe’s fiery temperament, his manic energy, and his passion for words. He is constantly on the move, bursting with ideas, and often difficult to control—much like his sprawling manuscripts. Law’s performance teeters on the edge of being over-the-top, but it works for the character, who was known for his larger-than-life persona.
Colin Firth, in contrast, plays Maxwell Perkins with quiet restraint. His performance is understated, portraying Perkins as a man of few words who prefers to stay in the background. Firth brings a subtle depth to the role, showing how Perkins’ calm exterior masks the internal struggle of a man devoted to his work, but aware of the sacrifices it demands from his personal life.
Their interactions are the heart of the film, with Law’s intensity clashing against Firth’s measured approach. The contrast between Wolfe’s chaotic creativity and Perkins’ methodical discipline creates a fascinating dynamic that drives the narrative.
Supporting Cast: Strong Performances All Around
While the film is centered on the relationship between Wolfe and Perkins, the supporting cast also delivers notable performances. Nicole Kidman plays Aline Bernstein, a stage designer and Wolfe’s lover, whose relationship with Wolfe becomes increasingly strained as he focuses on his writing. Kidman brings vulnerability and complexity to the role, portraying Aline as a woman who feels neglected and overshadowed by Wolfe’s genius.
Laura Linney, as Perkins’ wife Louise, also shines in her role, offering a grounded perspective on the sacrifices made by those who live with a genius. Linney’s performance is subtle but effective, as she conveys the quiet strength and patience required to support Perkins, even as his obsession with Wolfe grows.
Guy Pearce and Dominic West make brief appearances as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, respectively. Though their screen time is limited, their portrayals of these iconic literary figures add historical depth to the story.
Visual and Cinematic Style: A Period Piece with Atmosphere
Director Michael Grandage brings a stage-like quality to the film, appropriate given his background in theater. The film is visually rich, with the production design and costumes meticulously recreating 1920s New York. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the book-filled offices of Scribner’s, the film captures the atmosphere of the literary world of the time.
The muted color palette and soft lighting lend the film a contemplative tone, reflecting the internal struggles of its characters. The cinematography emphasizes the contrast between Wolfe’s chaotic, energetic presence and Perkins’ more controlled environment, often using close-ups to capture the intensity of their discussions.
However, some critics have noted that the film’s pacing can be slow at times, and the heavy focus on dialogue may not appeal to viewers looking for more action-driven storytelling. Genius is a film that requires patience, but for those interested in the intricacies of the creative process and the complexities of human relationships, it offers a rewarding experience.
Where to Watch Genius Online
If you’re interested in watching Genius (2016), here are the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Genius is available to stream on Hulu for subscribers.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is also streaming on Amazon Prime Video for those with a subscription.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Genius on Amazon Video, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase options available for $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The movie can be rented or bought on Google Play, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases available for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: iTunes offers rental for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options, with similar pricing to other platforms.
Why You Should Watch Genius (2016)
If you’re a fan of biographical dramas, literary history, or films that explore the artistic process, Genius offers a compelling glimpse into the world of one of America’s most celebrated authors. The dynamic performances of Jude Law and Colin Firth, combined with the film’s rich historical setting, make it a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven stories about creativity, collaboration, and the human cost of genius.
The film not only offers insight into the relationship between Wolfe and Perkins but also shines a light on the often-overlooked role of editors in shaping literary masterpieces. For anyone fascinated by the behind-the-scenes workings of the literary world, Genius provides a thoughtful and engaging portrayal.
Final Thoughts
Genius may not be a fast-paced film, but it is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant story about the power of words and the relationships that shape them. It’s a film that will appeal to lovers of literature and those who are intrigued by the creative process. With its strong performances, historical context, and deep themes, Genius is a worthy addition to the canon of literary biopics.
Ready to dive into the world of Thomas Wolfe and Maxwell Perkins? Check out Genius on your preferred streaming platform today, and witness the dramatic tension between one of America’s most enigmatic authors and his brilliant editor.
