This one falls into that darker corner of gay cinema. There was real potential buried in here, but the execution feels so flat that at points it plays out more like a filmed stage play than an actual movie. It's a dark psychological drama built around a street hustler confessing to a brutal, confusing murder of his own lover. Black and white flashback sequences do a solid job laying out the details of what happened, but the real focus stays on the dialogue and the writing itself. Right at the start, a young hustler has already killed his male lover Claude. Three days go by before he calls the police to turn himself in for the murder. But instead of just reporting it somewhere ordinary, he actually summons the police and the local press directly into a judge's private chambers. Yves has keys to the place, which tracks given what he does for a living, but having the press waiting right outside makes the whole scene look like some elaborate blackmail scheme against the judge. The ...
"Infamous" is based on George Plimpton's book in which he really tries to capture Truman Capote. The film explores Capote's bizarre relationship with Perry Smith. The sexual tension between the two is palpable, but we continue to question if Capote is merely manipulating Smith for the story or if, in fact, there is real substance to the attraction. We will never know if his reaction on death row is heartbreak or guilt. The mystery adds to the power of the story. Truman Capote is a loved socialite who loves to gossip with high profile women. Hi short height and a strange voice always sets him apart from everyone else in the group and needless to say that his flamboyant gay nature make him not so popular in other parts of the country. On November 16, 1959, Truman Capote reads about the murder of a Kansas family. There are no suspects. With Harper Lee, he visits the town: he wants to write about their response. First he must get locals to talk, then, after arrests, he must gain access to the prisoners. One talks constantly; the other, Perry Smith, says little. Capote is implacable, wanting the story, believing this book will establish a new form of reportage: he must figure out what Perry wants. Their relationship becomes something more than writer and character. They share a bond a love for which neither of them can do anything about. Truman uses everything in his power to get his facts right and get his book out but we also see the love that is growing within him for his new found friend. Perry Smith ultimately dies on death row leaving a void in Truman's heart.
Comparison of this film with 'Capote' is inevitable but since I haven't seen the latter I will refrain. I will say though is Daniel Craig as Perry Smith and the actor paying Truman were both brilliant. The portrayal os sexual tension between them is killing. This movie is a witty, moving and astonishing tale of obsession and relation.
Will strongly recommend. It is definitely entertaining. (6.5/10)
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