American Splendor

DirecTV gave us premium channels this weekend, so I got to watch a film I've wanted to see: American Splendor. It's an innovative blend of documentary and dramatization of the life of Harvey Pekar, author of the intensely autobiographical American Splendor comic book series. I was surprised to learn that R. Crumb actually drew the original A.S. comics, while Pekar wrote the story frames. Actor Paul Giamatti was just amazing as Pekar. Since his portrayal is cross-cut with footage of the real Pekar throughout the movie, the audience can see for themselves what an incredible acting job this was. The cinematography was wonderful, beautiful shots that really enhance the story. Since the plot interweaves "reality" and dramatization using comic book techniques like framed sequences and thought balloons, the editing must have been a big challenge--but the story moves along seamlessly. When a chemo-sick Pekar asks his wife, Am I a real person or a character in a story? (will my character live on after I die?) you know the filmmakers are really blurring the line between life and art. This is a wonderful film about a decidedly different comic book hero, a wonderful companion piece to Night Shyamalan's Unbreakable.