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KJ Apa Channels Jimmy Stewart in Flawed Biopic
5 Nov
Summary
- KJ Apa portrays iconic actor James Stewart in a new biopic.
- The film focuses on Stewart's WWII service and PTSD.
- Critics find the biopic corny but praise Apa's performance.
The new film "Jimmy" attempts to capture the life of iconic actor James Stewart, with Riverdale's KJ Apa in the lead role. Apa surprisingly embodies Stewart's distinctive voice and gangly physicality, particularly in scenes depicting emotional distress. The movie centers on Stewart's voluntary military service during World War II as a bomber pilot and the guilt he experienced losing men.
Directed by Aaron Burns, "Jimmy" is described as unafraid to be corny and lushly colored, focusing on Stewart's noble military service. It touches upon his career peak after winning an Oscar for "The Philadelphia Story" and his insistence on serving his country despite being underweight for military service. The film also depicts Stewart's struggle with PTSD upon returning to Hollywood, leading to his role in "It's a Wonderful Life."
While Apa's performance is a positive, the film's narrative approach is criticized for being overly diagrammed and melodramatic. It prioritizes Stewart's wartime trauma and its resolution through filmmaking over exploring the nuanced aspects of his career. The portrayal of his spouse is also noted as cursory, ultimately presenting the biopic as a missed opportunity despite Apa's effort.
