Capote (2005) dir. Bennett Miller | Philip Seymour Hoffman, Catherine Keener, Clifton Collins Jr.

I was hesitant to rewatch Bennett Miller's 2005 biopic because I thought it would only strengthen my desire to see Truman Capote vs. the Swans on one of the many streaming services I can't afford. I was right, and I do!

It's worth it, though, because this is such a unique treatment of a historical figure and Philip Seymour Hoffman's incredible portrayal of the titular author. A not small, not gay actor telling small gay man lies for two hours should not be this gripping, but here we are! (Hoffman was over half a foot taller than Capote, a teacup novelist). I love stories about people who are queer that do not focus singularly on their sexual/romantic relationships. Jack is there, accusing Truman of being in a good mood over the men whose crime he's writing about potentially being executed, but so is Nell (Harper Lee), trying to shame him into being a decent person. The relationship between Nell and Truman is the part of the film I enjoy most. They obviously care for each other very deeply, but she absolutely refuses to indulge his bullshit. We should all have a friend like Nell.