Mank (2020) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by David Fincher, Mank (2020) is a biographical drama that delves into the life of Herman J. Mankiewicz, the screenwriter behind the iconic film Citizen Kane. Featuring Gary Oldman in the titular role, alongside Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins, and Charles Dance, the film offers a deep dive into the complexities of Mankiewicz’s life, his turbulent relationship with Hollywood, and the creation of one of cinema’s greatest masterpieces. This review will explore the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Mank is set in the 1930s and follows Herman J. Mankiewicz (Gary Oldman), a celebrated screenwriter who is struggling to complete the screenplay for Citizen Kane while battling alcoholism and dealing with personal and professional conflicts. The film alternates between Mankiewicz’s present-day struggles and flashbacks to his experiences in Hollywood, including his interactions with powerful figures like William Randolph Hearst (Charles Dance) and his relationships with various collaborators.
The story delves into Mankiewicz’s life, examining his political views, his turbulent career, and the contentious process of writing Citizen Kane. The film provides an intimate portrait of a man who played a crucial role in one of cinema’s defining works, shedding light on the creative and personal challenges he faced.
Gary Oldman’s Performance
Gary Oldman delivers a masterful performance as Herman J. Mankiewicz, capturing the complexity and depth of the character. Oldman’s portrayal of Mankiewicz is both nuanced and compelling, showcasing his skill as an actor in bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of this iconic figure.
Amanda Seyfried’s Role
Amanda Seyfried plays Marion Davies, the actress and mistress of William Randolph Hearst. Seyfried’s performance adds a layer of emotional depth to the film, highlighting Davies’ struggles and her complex relationship with Mankiewicz. Her portrayal provides insight into the personal and professional dynamics at play during the creation of Citizen Kane.
Lily Collins’ Role
Lily Collins appears as Rita Alexander, Mankiewicz’s secretary and confidante. Collins’ performance adds a sense of loyalty and support to Mankiewicz’s journey, offering a grounded and heartfelt portrayal of her character’s role in his life and work.
Charles Dance’s Role
Charles Dance portrays William Randolph Hearst, the powerful media mogul who is a central figure in the film. Dance’s performance provides a commanding presence, adding tension and depth to the narrative through his interactions with Mankiewicz and other characters.
David Fincher’s Direction
David Fincher’s direction is a standout element of Mank, capturing the essence of 1930s Hollywood with meticulous attention to detail. His approach to the film combines a rich, period-accurate aesthetic with a deeply personal story, creating a compelling and immersive experience.
Fincher’s direction ensures that the film’s exploration of Mankiewicz’s life and the creation of Citizen Kane is both engaging and thought-provoking, offering a nuanced perspective on a key moment in film history.
Themes of Hollywood and Creativity
Mank explores themes of Hollywood politics, creativity, and personal struggle. The film delves into the complexities of working in the film industry, the challenges of writing and creating, and the impact of personal and political beliefs on artistic expression.
These themes are interwoven with Mankiewicz’s personal journey, providing a rich and multi-layered narrative that resonates with viewers interested in film history and the creative process.
What Works Well
The film’s strong performances, particularly from Gary Oldman and Amanda Seyfried, are major highlights. The cast’s ability to bring historical figures to life adds depth and authenticity to the story.
David Fincher’s direction and the film’s period-accurate portrayal of Hollywood contribute to its overall success. The attention to detail and the exploration of complex themes make Mank a compelling and insightful film.
What Falls Short
Some viewers might find the film’s pacing to be slow or its narrative to be somewhat dense. The focus on historical and creative details may feel heavy to those seeking a more straightforward or action-oriented story.
The film’s depiction of historical events and characters may also be seen as somewhat limited or selective, focusing primarily on Mankiewicz’s perspective rather than offering a broader view of the era.
Where to Watch Mank Online
For viewers in the United States, Mank is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. The film can be accessed through the following service:
- Netflix
Mank is available for streaming on Netflix, allowing viewers to watch the film in HD or 4K formats. A subscription to Netflix is required to access the film.
Is It Worth Watching?
Mank (2020) offers a fascinating and well-crafted exploration of Herman J. Mankiewicz’s life and the creation of Citizen Kane, with strong performances from Gary Oldman and Amanda Seyfried. The film’s rich portrayal of 1930s Hollywood and its focus on creative and personal struggles provide a compelling and insightful viewing experience.
While the film’s pacing and dense narrative may not appeal to everyone, its detailed exploration of film history and artistic challenges make it a worthwhile watch for fans of cinema and biographical dramas.
Conclusion
Mank (2020) delivers a captivating and thought-provoking biographical drama, directed by David Fincher and featuring performances from Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried, and Lily Collins. The film’s combination of strong performances, period-accurate details, and exploration of creative and personal themes offers a rich and immersive experience. Available for streaming on Netflix, Mank provides an engaging and insightful film experience for audiences interested in the history of cinema and the complexities of artistic creation.
