Kudos to a clever script, smart direction and the magnificent performances of Angelina Jolie, Mercedes Ruehl and Elizabeth Mitchell. Sometimes some of the best movies are the ones that never make it to theaters. HBO has a history of recognized original films, and this is one that I would definitely recommend to anyone who has a fascination with the world of modeling and show business.
Jolie, who is quite a character herself, creates an accurate and stunning portrayal of the model who burned out as quickly as she rose to fame in the ever-evolving world of fashion and modeling. Spiraling downwards into a world of drugs, sex and violence, Carangi lived hard and died young, her face forever immortalized by the lens that first discovered her raw and intriguing appeal. No doubt about it, she is an unforgettable icon in the industry, such as the scene indicates where she rudely carves her name into the receptionist's counter at the modeling agency who immediately takes her under their wing and turns her from a feisty and fearless teenager into a seductive and ethereal glamour goddess. Now this was a performance well-warranted of recognition and the Golden Globes knew that, thus presenting Jolie with its high honors as Best Actress.
Mercedes Ruehl was the perfect narrator for the story, Gia's forlorn mother, boning up her daughter's legacy with childhood memories and the typical endearments only mothers could enjoy. Then there's the wonderful supporting role of Linda, Gia's on-again off-again girlfriend, who is played with wonderful restraint by Elizabeth Williams. The only character with enough sense to try to get miles away from Gia's destructive behavior and crumbling sense of self-worth. She tries relentlessly to lead Gia astray from her powerful addictions (promiscuity, heroin, etc.), but loses her fight each time. Her love is honest and deep, but her will to stay sane is even stronger.
It's a sad story to tell, but nevertheless it's told well, and although you won't be smiling when it's over, you'll be very much impressed by the acting and the directing. Five stars it is, and this definitely won't be a waste of money to the person who chooses to buy, lest they aren't convinced by my gushing review!
Jolie, who is quite a character herself, creates an accurate and stunning portrayal of the model who burned out as quickly as she rose to fame in the ever-evolving world of fashion and modeling. Spiraling downwards into a world of drugs, sex and violence, Carangi lived hard and died young, her face forever immortalized by the lens that first discovered her raw and intriguing appeal. No doubt about it, she is an unforgettable icon in the industry, such as the scene indicates where she rudely carves her name into the receptionist's counter at the modeling agency who immediately takes her under their wing and turns her from a feisty and fearless teenager into a seductive and ethereal glamour goddess. Now this was a performance well-warranted of recognition and the Golden Globes knew that, thus presenting Jolie with its high honors as Best Actress.
Mercedes Ruehl was the perfect narrator for the story, Gia's forlorn mother, boning up her daughter's legacy with childhood memories and the typical endearments only mothers could enjoy. Then there's the wonderful supporting role of Linda, Gia's on-again off-again girlfriend, who is played with wonderful restraint by Elizabeth Williams. The only character with enough sense to try to get miles away from Gia's destructive behavior and crumbling sense of self-worth. She tries relentlessly to lead Gia astray from her powerful addictions (promiscuity, heroin, etc.), but loses her fight each time. Her love is honest and deep, but her will to stay sane is even stronger.
It's a sad story to tell, but nevertheless it's told well, and although you won't be smiling when it's over, you'll be very much impressed by the acting and the directing. Five stars it is, and this definitely won't be a waste of money to the person who chooses to buy, lest they aren't convinced by my gushing review!