Despite all - well worth a look

grahamclarke

"A Fine Madness" despite being something of a bumpy ride won me over with its well meaning driving energy. It has a certain wild charm about it, but ultimately what really makes it worth a look is the performance of Sean Connery.

Connery clearly desperate to escape the James Bond mould takes on the role of a non conformist borderline nutcase poet with the unlikely name of Samson Shilitoe. Although this might sound like an impossible transition, Connery with his powerful presence and loads of charisma plunges into the role and turns in a riveting performance.

There's also fine support from Joanne Woodward, Colleen Dewhurst and Clive Revill. The only disappointment is Jean Seberg who seems wasted in an underwritten thankless part.

For Connery fans this is essential viewing but others too may be surprised by this somewhat beguiling movie.

score 7/10

grahamclarke 28 February 2010

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2214033/