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Blow Movie Review
Actors
Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, Franka Potente, Rachel Griffiths, Ray Liotta, Paul Rubens
Movie Review
I like films about the drug trade so it was a given that I would like this film. It is based on the life of George Jung and the main character is played by Johnny Depp. Jung virtually established the cocaine industry in the USA in the 70s. The story follows his life from humble beginnings in Boston, moving to Manhattan Beach in California and the ups and downs of his life from then until his incarceration.
The film has been heavily criticised both for the way it was made and the stance it took, or rather lack there of, about the danger of drugs. In a way it partially glorified the drug industry in the 70s and 80s and didn't really show any of the negative effects. I guess it was just a story about one person and whilst it includes things he did, it doesn't look to make a stance on how dangerous his acts were. Once you have watched it you will think about it whilst the credits are rolling. The voice overs at the end really add to the film and the quick photo of the real George Jung help to emphasize that it was based true events.
At the end of the day we are all entitled to our own opinions and I liked the film. Did it depress me? Yes. Will I watch it again? Of course.
Look out for the special features on the DVD edition for a couple of interviews with George Jung that were done in 2001.
It is sad to know that within twelve months of the making of Blow, the director, Ted Demme collapsed and died on a basketball court. He allegedly had cocaine in his system at the time.
Quotes
May the wind always be at your back, And the sun upon your face, And the winds of destiny carry you aloft, To dance with the stars...
The official toxicity limit for humans is between one and one and half grams of cocaine depending on body weight. I was averaging five grams a day, maybe more. I snorted ten grams in ten minutes once. I guess I had a high tolerance.
Useless Information
Kristina Jung, the daughter of George, plays a clerk in the film, but the scene was cut.
Ted Demme played the lawyer towards the end when discussing his father.
Rachel Griffiths is five years younger than Johnny Depp and she played his mother.
This movie review was published on 11 Dec 2004, by James
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