Review of Danny Collins (2015) by James H — 13 Aug 2017

Danny Collins.

Zoomer Kicks.

I got a real kick out of this little gem of a film. The genre of short-story-made-into-a-film is one most suited for the medium of film. From films like Francois Truffaut's Wild Child or Brian DePalma's Carlito's Way, Danny Collins will give you a real kick for your money. For the last couple of years I try to forego doing any research on the story behind a film or the filmmakers to enhance the raw experience of watching a movie first hand. Since the producers did not wish to divulge which singer's career the film's story was slightly based upon until the end of the film (and even once I knew it didn't help!), it does a wonder trick of keeping you looking for clues until the story takes hold and makes you forget all your guesses. When I was watching Pacino on stage singing "Baby Doll" I was a-betting that it would be Barry Manilow. It was the 1970s, and Manilow had this huge endorsement from Frank Sinatra. I figured it suited Pacino. Was I right? Well, watch the film and enjoy drawing your own inferences. A great film for Boomers (or Zoomers as some are calling themselves in Toronto) and those who a curious of the off-stage life of over the hill pop stars when they don't set up shop in Las Vegas. And watch for Annette Benning-spot on acting which makes her radiate with provincial charm.