In the exploration of Hollywood leading men, the case of Cary Grant stands out as an intriguing contrast between the on-screen character that made him famous and the complex Archie Leach character he embodied on and off screen. Unlike many actors who struggle to come to terms with his public image, Grant's attempt to become someone else was remarkably sharp.
The biographical drama "Archie" unfolds in four emotional parts, following Cary Grant through five different phases of his life. The narrative begins with Dainton Anderson playing Archie as a boy growing up in poverty in Bristol in the 1910s. The bleak circumstances are exacerbated by the irresponsible cowardice of his father, Elias. The death of Archie's older brother, attributed in part to Elias, becomes a defining tragedy that shapes Archie's tumultuous journey.
Stars: Jason Isaacs, Laura Aikman, Kara Tointon
As the narrative progresses, Archie goes through his teenage years, joins an acrobatic troupe, and eventually ventures to New York to pursue a career in acting. The series takes creative liberties by featuring pivotal moments, such as Archie's transformation into Cary Grant, marked by a charmingly cheesy but meaningful name change.
While Archie's peak years in Hollywood are intentionally glossed over, the narrative delves into the early 1960s, as Grant, now a seasoned actor with multiple divorces, grapples with the trauma of his past. The series is inspired by the memoirs of Grant's fourth wife, Dyan Cannon, and offers an intimate portrait of their doomed relationship. Cannon, played by Laura Aikman, captures the delicate balance of energy, intelligence and naivety that defines a future star.
Jason Isaacs embodies the superficial charm and restrained menace of Cary Grant, portraying a man too damaged to be as kind as he wishes. The narrative avoids sanitizing Grant's difficult personality, depicting him as possessive, jealous, and fussy, revealing the impact of his considerable mothering problems. Harriet Walter's searing performance adds depth to the portrayal of Grant's complex relationship with his mother.
The series culminates with a fifth incarnation of Grant in the 1980s, as he candidly addresses fans during a speaking tour before his death. Isaacs, still in the role, captures the brilliance of the elder Grant and offers tearful catharsis in the final scenes. Despite being an exceptionally sad story, the narrative highlights Grant's redemption in raising his and Cannon's daughter, Jennifer, offering a welcome, if bittersweet, ending to Cary Grant's complex life.
Comments
Post a Comment