The People vs. Larry Flynt

Starring: Woody Harrelson, Courtney Love, Edward Norton, Brett Harrelson, Donna Hanover, James Cromwell, Crispin Glover, Vincent Schiavelli, Miles Chapin, James Carville, Richard Paul, Norm MacDonald, Cody Block
Directed by: Milos Forman
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
1996

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Larry Flynt (Woody Harrelson) courts controversy as the publisher of Hustler Magazine, and becomes a staunch defender of free speech.

Review:

Tim: The People vs. Larry Flynt is a seriously good movie. Milo Forman is a talented director, he has a strong cast, and a fascinating subject matter. I don't quite think the movie was great, but it's an informative, entertaining movie that plays with our expectations and ultimately delivers.

I have to say, I didn't know much about Larry Flynt before watching this movie. This is certainly a case of truth being stranger than fiction. I know the movie took some creative liberties, but Flynt's story is almost beyond belief. There's so many twists and turns, so many unexpected moments. It's a story that had it been fictional, no one would have believed it. The fact that it's based on truth is stunning. Flynt is obviously a complex person and his story is a brilliant example that people can be more than one thing. You could argue that Flynt is the lowest of the low, a smut peddler just out for a quick buck. As he's presented in this movie, he'd certainly agree with many of the unflattering descriptions people might hurl at him. And yet, his story is an astonishing tale of survival, of overcoming challenges that would have crushed most men. Whether that's almost willingly doing jail time for his beliefs, or campaigning fiercely for a cause that benefits all Americans (and himself, it must be said), Flynt has lived a life that defies whatever expectations we might place on him. The fact that his story got told here, and in such entertaining fashion, is a big win.

I can't say enough about Woody Harrelson in this role. Harrelson has long been one of the great (and underrated actors) and I can't imagine anyone else playing this role. Harrelson has these qualities that just draw you to him- his intelligence, his charisma, you just feel happy watching him. However, he has these more subtle, darker tones to him as well. It helps him to give his performance added complexity and depth. As Flynt, I wouldn't say I loved the character, but I was intrigued and entertained by him. Harrelson is able to maintain his own persona while inhabiting this character. I knew I watching Harrelson, but it was easy to believe he was Larry Flynt in the context of the movie. His performance is the highlight of the film and he received one of the film's 2 Academy Award nominations- for Best Actor.

Courtney Love was less effective, although far better than I expected her to be. Love has a reputation of being a bit of a mess, so in some ways, she was perfect for this role. She's at her best when she's tapping into her own past and experience to bring the character to life. I didn't love her performance, but she was solid and mostly better than I expected her to be. Edward Norton was really strong in his supporting role, too. Norton is such a great actor and he elevated this supporting character beyond what we might expect. He doesn't have a ton of screen time, but it's considerable enough for him to make a lasting impact on the film. This role didn't necessarily have to be as memorable as it was- Norton is what makes that so.I liked seeing James Cromwell and Crispin Glover here. Brett Harrelson was decent. Richard Paul did some nice work, too. As a whole, the large cast worked extremely well together.

In addition to Harrelson's Best Actor nod, Milos Forman was nominated for Best Director. This felt deserving as well. He corrals a large cast, an almost unbelievable story, and weaves it into a compelling, entertaining drama. The script certainly helps and I think it could have been nominated. At 2 hours, 10 minutes, this is not a short movie. However, Forman never lets the movie outstay its welcome. The pacing was strong and it holds our attention throughout the run time. You sit there, just wondering what is going to happen next. The dialogue between the characters is really strong. One of my favorite lines is an exchange between Harrelson and Norton. Flynt says, "You don't want to quit me, I'm your dream client: I'm the most fun, I'm rich, and I'm always in trouble." Great line, but Harrelson's delivery is just pitch perfect.

I think it would be easy to dismiss this movie. I didn't see it for 25+ years after its release. I'm not entirely sure why, but a movie about Larry Flynt just never climbed to the top of my list. I definitely missed out, because this movie was an absolute blast. It's entertaining, provocative, occasionally shocking, and completely memorable. The People vs. Larry Flynt is an incredibly strong film.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Natural Born Killers, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest