The true quality of the film is reflected in the way how a particular title is getting old - whether it will fall into oblivion or, even ten years after its release, will continue to matter. But on the other hand, there is Tommy Wiseau who, with the film The Room, did what many films that competed for Oscars didn't, that is to break the teeth of time, and even fourteen years later it will continue to be the subject of many film conversations.
The cult status of the best among the worst films has ever further strengthened the film The Disaster Artist. Based on Greg Sester's eponymous book on the creation of Wiseau's famous work, The Disaster Artist not only gives homage to the film, but also celebrates his legacy and, ultimately, the passion of the main actors to fulfill their dreams.
The story follows Tommy and Greg and begins from their first encounter. Both are ambitious in their intentions to become actors. But, as this process requires a lot more than they can do, Tommy comes to the idea that they make their own film. Tommy takes on the responsibilities of the producer, screenwriter, director and lead role in his hands. Everything else is, as we know, history.
At first glance, James Franco and the team could be the wrong choice for this film. In the company of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the popular actor is known for some crazy comedies of particularly low or no value. However, Franco and friends in this case are doing an incredibly good job. Accepting these themes and screenings definitely represent a highway rope, because the film should avoid grotesque and caricature parodies, and again to comedy with what should really be shown. Franco was able to completely dispel the absurd situations that followed the appearance of The Room, without even getting into a laugh and parody at some point.
Here I am primarily thinking of the relationship between Tommy and Greg, and then their relationship to the film itself. There is a strong and unconditional attachment among them - even though Greg sometimes doesn't understand Tommy's decisions and thoughts, he nevertheless sees in him a picture of his ambitions and goals, and precisely because they are so similar, is a strong thread of guidance that will overcome all the problems and obstacles .
The Disaster Artist clearly shows why The Room has ended so catastrophically, but it doesn't do any ridicule. We can say that behind both titles is a strong moral and inspirational message, and that's not to give up your goals and dreams, although everyone around you tells you that you should. It's precisely for this reason that The Disaster Artist forces us to cheer for Tommy and Greg, and to develop a strong empathy for these two.
Definitely the main trump of this film is the performance given by James Franco. From style and movement to speech and emotional expression, Franco portrays Wiseau with the greatest credibility. It's for this reason that we get a deeper insight into the emotional and psychological state of the enigma that Wiseau is. In all of his surprise and unusual appearance, to catch all the traits of a character, without falling into ridicule, the challenge is for every actor, and James Franco does it brilliantly.
On the other hand, his brother Dave Franco in the role of Greg is quite solid. The problem I have with Dave is that I don't distinguish him from too much of his earlier roles. All in all, when looking at the entire acting line, given the complexity of the materials they had, everyone did a fantastic job without mistake.
To enjoy the film The Disaster Artist one doesn't need to watch The Room before; but it is recommended. Really recommended. Regardless, The Disaster Artist is, no doubt, the best comedy you will see this year. In addition, The Room will bring you closer to the extent that you will observe it from another angle, you will understand the motivation behind it, you will sympathize with the people in the film, and even cheer for Tommy and the team.
This was my translation from Croatian to English from Ziher hr article ''Oda strasti i vizija tvorca filma The Room'' by A.Bajrovic
Let's remind you what we're talking about when talking about The Room
The Disaster Artist