What just happened?

Well, I don't think this a comedy anyway. The movie starring Robert De Niro as a producer is almost a straight doco. Funny in parts but, when NIDA friend and long time film-going partner John Paramor, said he hated the 'Director' character, I asked if he had ever worked with people like that? His answer, 'YES' was so large there's not a big enough type face to write it.

De Niro is the revelation. Sometimes it's sad to see heroes age on screen but I was warned about his mellowing when I saw him interviewed in Cannes on TV. He sat low in his chair giggling like a baby, looking sweet and amiable. Is this the once 'Raging Bull?' He has stepped into a new persona you wouldn't have been able to imagine a decade ago. Calm and mature, there's a steadiness about him that belies all previous violence.

I always thought his best roles were 'Everyman in a Cold World' parts a la 'Midnight Run' but its a joy to see him as a thoughtful father, implacable businessman, wounded husband and amused entrepreneur. He is now the 'man of the world' even in the worst underwear in history and the film, made as it is by seasoned insiders, is a delight.

Go thinking to catch a glimpse of real Hollywood and then the humour emerges but there are no belly laughs. It's a world as weird as the deep waters of the oceans and as fascinating. The seduction scene in the men's loo when De Niro is approached by a perfect beauty murmuring soft endearments, is one of the spine chilling moments when you realise how hard marriages must be to maintain in FilmLand L.A.

One of the highlights is the calm power of the Studio Boss. I wonder how many creative people have wanted to say - change this or "I'll take this movie away from you and re-cut it myself"?

To see the trailer of 'What just happened?' click here: