The biopic Jimmy has drawn criticism for its portrayal of Hollywood legend James Stewart, according to a review published in Variety. The film, which centres on Stewart’s military service rather than his celebrated film career, has been described as a “glowingly conservative” tribute.
Variety notes that the late actor, known as one of Hollywood’s staunchest Republicans, would likely be displeased with a focus that sidelines his artistic achievements in favour of his wartime record. The review calls the resulting depiction “hokey, superficial,” suggesting that the movie falls short of capturing the complexity of Stewart’s life.
“As one of Hollywood’s staunchest Republicans, the late James Stewart perhaps wouldn’t be rolling in his grave in response to ‘Jimmy,’ a biopic that — in focusing rather less on his artistry than on his military service — paints him in a glowingly conservative light. But either way, he deserves better than this hokey, superficial …”
James Stewart, who served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, is remembered for iconic roles such as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and It's a Wonderful Life. His career spanned five decades, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1940.
While Jimmy aims to highlight Stewart’s patriotism, critics argue that the film’s emphasis on his political leanings and wartime experiences overshadows the nuanced artistry that defined his legacy.
<small>Source: Variety — read the original story there.</small>
