Based on the May 1996 Vanity Fair article "The Man
Who Knew Too Much" by Marie Brenner, "The Insider"
follows the trials and tribulations of a former big
tobacco executive who coughs up sobering truths
concerning cigarette addiction. Mann's script remains
boldly true to the article, right down to naming
names (CBS, Wallace, B&W, etc.); Mississippi
Attorney General Michael Moore even plays himself, "I
saw it as a chance to have some fun and be a part of
history again." (Quote from production notes.)
Russell Crowe, almost completely unrecognizable
from his long-haired, hockey-playing, mountain man
look in "Mystery,
Alaska," works out the nervous cricks in his
neck as the middle-aged, whistle-blowing, former VP
of B&M (Kools, Viceroy). Managing the difficult
role of an intelligent, imperfectly sincere, tough,
slowly crumbling pillar, Crowe displays appropriately
tamed flare and rugged modesty.
Pacino plays Lowell Bergman, producer of "60
minutes" and Wallace's right hand guy. It's Lowell
that erects the soap box/guillotine for Dr. Wigand's
big bean spillage. Willing to loose it all (family,
reputation, even freedom), Dr. Wigand refuses to be
squelched by Tobacco's less than subtle intimidation
tactics (including but not limited to death threats).
In fact, the movie plays a bit like a horror flick at
times ... Is the house safe for the family? Will one
of the kids be snatched away? Will an un-snuffed
cigar butt start the place on fire? Wigand weighs the
risks: personal welfare vs. right vs. stubborn horse
pride, "I can't seem to find the criteria to
decide."
Eventually, Lowell's proximity and passion to this
truth-teller leaves him feeling the stinging singes
of hot coals as well. Pacino's performance, as in
other films, is flawless. He's strong, passionate and
completely driven.
Interestingly enough, I don't recall a single lit
cigarette or pipe in the entire picture, not even
from a passer-by; perhaps making the film's only flaw
(if you wish to call it that) a wisping tendency
toward the preachy. Nonetheless, "The Insider"
delivers good entertaining drama. After it's two hour
and thirty-seven minute duration, you'll still be
left wanting more.
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