It looks like awards season started early this year.
Following up 2013’s profoundly intimate The Spectacular Now, director James Ponsoldt proves his worth once again with The End of the Tour. The film follows Rolling Stone reporter David Lipsky (Jesse Eisenberg) as he interviews, idolizes and loathes writer David Foster Wallace (Jason Segel), who recently attained superstar-status following the release of his novel, Infinite Jest.
Like Ponsoldt’s previous film, The End of the Tour explores the complex philosophies and emotions of the two leads. Wallace sees fame as a poison and accepts his “regular guy-ness”, and yet does not want others to see that as a persona. Lipsky, on the other hand, is envious of Wallace’s fame as well as his ability while simultaneously curious about what makes him tick, that there must be something more.
Donald Margulies’ script doles out these insights evenly throughout the film, making the 90 minute runtime feel quick, but dense. The End of the Tour can withstand multiple viewings, as the audience unpacks more and more about Wallace and Lipsky each time. The script, in conjunction with career-best performances from Eisenberg and Segel, is funny, honest, and disquieting all in one scene.
Jason Segel, known primarily for his comedy work, crosses the bridge to drama effortlessly. At 34, Segel is the same age that Wallace was in ’96 (The year the film takes place.) and it’s clear he has a deep understanding of the writer’s passions and pains, as is evident in his performance. Segel shifts and stutters uncomfortably when Eisenberg’s Lipsky asks even the friendliest questions. A particularly great moment is the Alanis Morissette scene, where Segel unloads a pre-thought monologue about the attractiveness of the artist, but, because of his uncomfortable physicality, makes this seem like the very first time it is being said aloud. This scene alone is a testament to Segel’s ability as well as his devotion to the “character” of David Foster Wallace, a man who has a thought and a monologue on seemingly any and all subjects.
Jesse Eisenberg pulls out another impressive performance as David Lipsky. Lipsky is fast talking, quick-witted and neurotic; all tenants we’ve come to expect from an Eisenberg performance. However, with a sense of humor and genuine curiosity, Eisenberg transforms what could have been just another role into another career defining moment for the 31-year-old Oscar nominee.
The film shares Lipsky’s sense of curiosity with the viewers, leaving you both satisfied but insatiable for more. It’s rare feeling to get from a film, especially a biopic.
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