Being Julia
Being Julia

Being Julia

2004Movie104 minEnglish

Julia Lambert is a true diva: beautiful, talented, weathly and famous. She has it all - including a devoted husband who has mastermined her brilliant career - but after years of shining in the spotlight she begins to suffer from a severe case of boredom and longs for something new and exciting to put the twinkle back in her eye. Julia finds exactly what she's looking for in a handsome young American fan, but it isn't long before the novelty fling adds a few more sparks than she was hoping for. Fortuately for her, this surprise twist in the plot will thrust her back into the greatest role of her life.

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Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users78%
Director: István SzabóGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In 1930s London, the celebrated but volatile stage actress Julia Lambert finds her life mirroring her current theatrical role when she becomes infatuated with a young American admirer. As she embarks on a passionate affair, she manipulates those around her, including her director and ex-husband, to keep her secret. The situation escalates as the young man's intentions become clear, forcing Julia to confront the reality of her actions and their impact on her career and personal life.

Critical Reception

Being Julia was generally well-received by critics, with particular praise directed at Annette Bening's performance. The film was noted for its witty dialogue, period detail, and Bening's compelling portrayal of a complex character navigating love and career. While some found the plot somewhat predictable, the overall consensus highlighted its strengths as a character study and a showcase for its lead actress.

What Reviewers Say

  • Annette Bening delivers a tour-de-force performance as a complex actress.
  • The film is praised for its sharp wit, elegant production design, and engaging story.
  • While some critics found the narrative a bit conventional, Bening's performance is universally lauded.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film for Annette Bening's captivating performance and the charming period setting. Many found the story engaging and well-acted, though a segment of viewers felt the plot could have been more surprising.

Awards & Accolades

Annette Bening was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the film. She also received nominations for a Golden Globe Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the W. Somerset Maugham novel 'Theatre', which was first published in 1937.

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