Simone
Directed by: Andrew Niccol
Starring: Al Pacino, Catherine Keener, Jason Schwartzman
Rated: PG-13 for some sensuality
Parental Notes: “Simone” is a film that will probably go over the heads of youngsters, but older teens may appreciate its mockery of the Hollywood machine.
Director Victor Taransky (Al Pacino) has two problems. His diva of a leading lady has walked off his newest picture just as it nears completion, and as a result the studio he works for will not renew his contract. When a slightly crazed fan appears offering Taransky a program that will create actors within a computer, Taransky is saved. He finishes his masterpiece, claims to have found an unknown actress and matted her into the shots, and not only does the world believe him, they loves her.
Taransky figures he’ll tell everyone that Simone is really a computer program soon, but first he’ll just make one more film. Of course by then, he’s too wrapped up in his creation and her popularity, and can’t bear to end it. As Simone becomes more and more famous, Taransky finds himself overshadowed by his creation. By the time he decides he has to get rid of her, he can’t convince anyone that she doesn’t exist; his performance has been too perfect.
“Simone” is more than a satirical look at Hollywood; it is a film with a point to make. Although the moral of the tale is a bit muddled, the satire and the wonderful acting make it worth seeing. For once, Pacino abandons most of his trademark tics, and Katherine Keener turns in yet another seamless performance as Taransky’s snarky studio boss and ex-wife.
Simone is perfect. Although the credits of the film credit “Simone