Being John Malkovich
Being John Malkovich

Movie spotlight

Being John Malkovich

1999
Movie
113 min
English

One day at work, unsuccessful puppeteer Craig finds a portal into the head of actor John Malkovich. The portal soon becomes a passion for anybody who enters its mad and controlling world of overtaking another human body.

Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic87/100
Google Users85%
Director: Spike JonzeGenres: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

Plot Summary

A puppeteer discovers a hidden portal in his office building that leads into the mind of actor John Malkovich. He and his manipulative co-worker begin to exploit this bizarre discovery, selling access to Malkovich's consciousness to strangers. As the situation escalates, they find themselves entangled in a web of desire, identity crisis, and existential absurdity.

Critical Reception

Being John Malkovich was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its originality, surreal humor, and bold concept. Critics praised Spike Jonze's unique directorial vision and Charlie Kaufman's inventive screenplay. The performances, particularly John Malkovich's willingness to play a version of himself, were also highly commended, solidifying its status as a cult classic.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its surreal and boundary-pushing premise.

  • Lauded for its sharp, witty, and philosophical screenplay.

  • Celebrated for inventive direction and strong performances.

Google audience: Audiences largely found the film to be a uniquely inventive and thought-provoking experience. Many appreciated its dark humor and the meta-commentary on fame and identity. Some found the bizarre premise challenging, but the overall sentiment was one of admiration for its sheer originality and creative execution.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for three Academy Awards (Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress for Catherine Keener). Won numerous other awards including the Independent Spirit Award for Best Feature and Best Director.

Fun Fact

The idea for the portal into John Malkovich's mind came to Charlie Kaufman after he saw Malkovich in a play and felt an odd sense of connection and possessiveness over his persona.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

“Craig” (John Cusack) is married to “Lotte” (Cameron Diaz) but it’s more of a convenient arrangement as they both struggle to make ends meet. He is a professional puppeteer so whilst that allows him to dwell in world of creative fantasy, it...

r96sk

r96sk

<em>'Being John Malkovich'</em> sure is quite something! Despite not knowing the type of movie that it is, I'm always wanted to get this one watched purely because of the title. Now I've seen it, I'm pleased I've done so. It's strange on th...

d54.pod

d54.pod

Full review: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2YaFaVOq4cOeC7BBgUgmou?si=dfb200c90b4d4e74 ---- While there are many movies about self discovery, self growth and identity, not many (if really any) have taken the approach of 'Being John ...

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