Capote

Philip Seymour Hoffman gives a tour de force performance as Truman Capote in a film that matches Hoffman’s authentic representation by way of its precise scope and immaculate execution. The filmmakers focus on Truman Capote’s determination to write a "non-fiction novel" as a genre–revolutionizing device to elevate himself as a public figure of literary excellence alongside Proust and Tennessee Williams. Capote uses his fey manner and whiny voice like a Columbo-styled journalist detective who neutralizes people in his path to get close to the men accused of killing a wealthy family in Holcomb, Kansas. With drink as a constant companion Capote goes so far as to hire attorneys to arrange a stay of execution for the men so he can get more information for his book from murderer Perry Smith (Clifton Collins Jr.). The movie covers the six-year period that Truman Capote worked on "In Cold Blood" as it contributed equally to his fame and demise. "Capote" is a rare film of uncanny depth and insight.

Rated R, 115 mins. (A) (Five Stars)