Capote

Oscar-nominated Capote is a biopic that follows American novelist Truman Capote for the six years in which he wrote his 1966 non-fiction novel, In Cold Blood.

Philip Seymour Hoffman replicates Capote’s camp stutter and mannerisms in precise detail. From the outset, he is depicted as a performer, constantly striving to be the centre of attention.

Capote’s revolutionary book reconstructed the capture, trial and execution of the two killers of a Kansas family. His evolving relationship with murderer Perry Smith is the most absorbing element of the film.

Capote and Smith, both from broken families, are shown to be artistic, yet brutally selfish in their individual search for recognition. They develop an intimate understanding, which is exploited by Capote.

We witness Capote’s demise as he strives to strike balance between gaining Smith’s trust, and the need for his execution, which will provide closure to his book.

We learn much of Capote’s growing fascination with Smith through his conversations with childhood friend and fellow author, Harper Lee, whose success he envies bitterly.

The film leaves you wanting greater insight into Smith’s background. More dialogue between him and Capote would have further cemented their striking similarities. It is easy to forget that the film is as much about Capote’s relationship with the book as its subjects.

As director Bennett Miller’s first film, Capote is a powerful and gripping debut. Hoffman has consistently impressed with his roles in Boogie Nights, Almost Famous and Magnolia. Capote is his first lead role and should provide long-overdue recognition for his talent.