“De-Lovely” (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer)
“De-Lovely” is a de-lightfully, de-licious film about the life and loves of Cole Porter. Since it is a “warts and all” view of the magnificently talented songwriter, it is also a little de-pressing. Still overall the combination of drama, music and romance makes this a movie worth seeing and a strong credit for the rsum’s of both Kevin Kline and Ashley Judd.
The film starts with a Hollywood/Broadway producer (Jonathan Pryce) talking with an elderly Cole Porter (Kline) about his life. As they talk his story is told in flashbacks starting with the night he met the beautiful socialite Linda Lee (Judd). They clicked instantly and started a romance. It was a strange attraction on his part as he was regularly involved with other men.
Eventually they marry and maintain a semblance of happiness based on mutual affection and her faith in his talent. She appears to have been the person responsible for guiding his career in the right direction. Cole respects Linda but he can never actually be faithful to her. He hurts her over and over again, and always regrets her pain.
As the storyline evolves the lyrics to his most famous songs take on new meaning. As presented in this film they mirror activities in his personal life that gives them a subtext never noticed before.
The musical numbers are part of the ongoing story of his life. Musical stars such as Natalie Cole, Alanis Morrisette, Sheryl Crow and many others perform them and they are all good. They give the film a boost and propel the story forward.
Kline is physically a little old to play Porter in his younger years but his acting is perfect. Although he is quite an accomplished singer, he gives Porter a halting, weak voice that presents his music but does not enhance it. He is totally believable in the role and makes some of Porter’s eccentricities understandable.
Judd is a little too young for her part, but that is a small quibble. She creates a character who dominates the film and is the steel spine behind the man. At times you can see the heartbreak of the character written on her beautiful face.
The film is rated PG-13 for profanity and sexual situations.
Those who go expecting just a bland telling of Porter’s life may be a little surprised at how revealing it is of his bisexuality. Still the film is never overly graphic in this area. For most who see it, it will just be a wonderful look at the man, the music, and the loves of his life
I scored “De-Lovely” a de-lectable 8 out of 10.
