Mini series review: The Offer

 Like the saying goes, don't let the truth get in the way of a good story. 

This production telling the story of how one of the greatest films of our time got made might not be completely historically accurate but it is still a great thrill ride from beginning to end. 

They have their fun and explore some fun 'what ifs' with the situation and keep their humour throughout, even with suit executives breathing down their necks with their unwavering ideas of what a movie should be. And here we have Burn Gorman and Colin Hanks portraying those grim faced people - Charles Bluhdorn and Barry Lapidus respectively. It can't be easy being the constant naysayers but these two really do measure up.

Every key part of the film which we now recognise as being essential to the overall greatness was fought tooth and nail over and we're glad that they did. Al Ruddy (portrayed by Miles Teller) and Francis Ford Coppola, here portrayed by Dan Fogler, were battling every day to get the movie made the way they wanted. Mr Ruddy's assistant, Bettye McCartt portrayed by Juno Temple is very much an essential part of that team and everyone's wits and problem solving skills are pushed to the limit.

Not only were the big executives in their way, the actual mafia had to be reasoned with and here Giovanni Ribisi does fine work as always as Joe Colombo.

Casting wise, they definitely got everyone spot on - special mention must go to Justin Chambers and Anthony Ippolito for their portrayals of Marlon Brando and Al Pacino respectively, it is downright spooky how close they get to the people they are portraying. Not just when everyone is in costume but also when they're not, including the first meetings when they come to discuss the roles.

But of course, the real star of the show, no joke, is Matthew Goode's portrayal of Bob Evans, the head of Paramount Pictures at the time. He relishes in the role and pushes it to the absolute top of what he can do. 

Bravo to all involved in creating this series. Salut! 

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