The Rum Diary
Tired of the noise and madness of New York and the crushing conventions of late Eisenhower-era America, itinerant journalist Paul Kemp travels to the pristine island of Puerto Rico to write for a local San Juan newspaper run by the downtrodden editor Lotterman. Adopting the rum-soaked lifestyle of the late ‘50s version of Hemingway’s 'The Lost Generation', Paul soon becomes entangled with a very attractive American woman and her fiancée, a businessman involved in shady property development deals. It is within this world that Kemp ultimately discovers his true voice as a writer and integrity as a man.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1960s San Juan, Puerto Rico, a freelance journalist named Paul Kemp struggles to find work and navigate the decadent lifestyle of American expatriates. He becomes entangled with a mysterious woman and her wealthy, corrupt businessman fiancé, all while confronting his own disillusionment with writing and the American dream.
Critical Reception
The Rum Diary received mixed to negative reviews from critics, with many finding it a disappointing adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's novel. While some performances were praised, the film was often criticized for its meandering plot and lack of focus.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for Johnny Depp's commitment to the role and the atmospheric portrayal of 1960s Puerto Rico.
- Criticized for its disjointed narrative and failure to capture the satirical edge of the source material.
- Some found the performances of the supporting cast, particularly Aaron Eckhart, to be a highlight.
Google audience: Audiences were divided, with some appreciating the period setting and Depp's performance, while others found the story unfocused and the characters underdeveloped.
Fun Fact
Johnny Depp, who also produced the film, had been trying to get "The Rum Diary" made for over 15 years, having first become attached to the project in 1997.
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