“Hail, Caesar!” perfect for movie buffs

What do the famous directors Ethan and Joel Coen, and their all-star cast bring to the table with this film?  “Hail, Caesar !” is listed as a comedy, but it’s not what it seems. The movie involves four plots, with each stemming from one of the popular productions types in Hollywood’s Golden Age. So what does this mean to the average movie goer looking for easy entertainment ? Don’t bother. You will not find this movie as funny without an understanding of Hollywood’s Golden Age, or the types of talents enrolled in theatrical production. Now for the actor, singer, dancer, shaker, and producer, all the movie buffs reading this review, this might be one of your favorite films of the year.

The movie has an elevated sense of comedy. Many of the jokes, and situational comedy come from pokes at the types of performers you’ll run into in the producing business: the crazy and eccentric directors, the stressed sleep-deprived mad men who keep the entire operation running, and the Prima donna . The comedic element is brilliantly crafted to be enjoyed by those involved with, and who appreciate, all that goes into a film or theatre production.

What the movie lacks in the crass humor and profanity, it makes up for with intensive plot. Scarlett Johansson plays DeeAnna Moran an aquatic movie star who could be in trouble with the press. Baird Whitlock (George Clooney) is kidnapped from his blockbuster film on the story of Christ.  Tobey (Alden Ehrenreich) is an old western movie star forced into a role in an English drama. All of this is trying to be organized by Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin)  the producer of the film company. In short, the plot is complicated and demands full attention during the film, but pays out in every possible way.

I would give this movie an 8/10. It’s an enjoyable comedy that draws in the audience. Through the comedic value, the film weaves four plots together in an entertaining fashion.  While some viewers may not have this type of film on their palette, I would consider it a masterful cinematic piece with an interesting target audience.