Film Evaluation: The Idolmaker (1980)


Style: Musical Drama  

Director: Taylor Hackford  

Starring: Ray Sharkey, Peter Gallagher, Tovah Feldshuh, Paul Land, Joe Pantoliano, Olympia Dukakis  

Operating Time: 117 minutes  

Synopsis: In New York Metropolis of 1959, 27 year-old songwriter Vinnie Vacarri (Ray Sharkey) continues to be working as a waiter at his brother’s restaurant. Lastly admitting he doesn’t have the seems to be for stardom, Vinnie decides to advertise the profession of his extra charismatic buddy Tommy (Paul Land), and secures the assistance of journal editor Brenda (Tovah Feldshuh). Vinnie subsequent spots the exceptionally beauty of busboy Guido (Peter Gallagher), and begins to mastermind one other rise to the highest.

What Works Properly: Loosely primarily based on the profession of music promoter and producer Bob Marcucci, this can be a behind-the-scenes take a look at the enterprise of producing stars. Vinnie Vacarri is stressed, creative, and savvy, but in addition hard-driving and never too sympathetic. Ray Sharkey’s edgy efficiency electrifies the crucial to succeed by others in an effort to fulfill the gaping gap inside. The Edward di Lorenzo script effectively defines Vinnie’s key influences, together with his profitable however distant father, and debut director Taylor Hackford packs loads of not-bad teen pop music inside the wealthy human drama.

What Does Not Work As Properly: Maybe in step with the fogettaboutit Italian-American milieu, nuance is skipped and feelings are at all times near the floor. Vital time is invested in Tommy and Guido’s journeys and performances, however they’re finally to the facet of the core story and each their narrative arcs fade. The romance between Vinnie and Brenda is confined to superficialities.

Key Quote:

Vinnie (to Tommy): You understand one thing? With the appropriate dealing with, you may go all the best way.

All Ace Black Film Weblog evaluations are right here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *