There have been many fine actors, and a few who were truly unique. Spencer Tracy comes to mind. But I'm not sure that in terms of looks and behavior and story line that a good bio-pic of Humphrey Bogart is even possible. And this tv-movie seemed to prove that.
I'm sure Kevin O'Connor (who???) did the best he could playing Bogie. But it was none too good. Yes, there was something about the face and the way he said certain things...but this is another example where a famous person's persona was so unique that probably no one could quite capture it. And...pardon me...but O'Connor's teeth were a constant distraction for me. Similarly, Kathryn Harrold's portrayal of Lauren Bacall missed the mark, as well. Though not quite as unique as Bogie, Bacall just didn't look or sound like this portrayal of her.
As far as Ann Wedgeworth's portrayal of Mayo Methot...I have no idea. I suppose I've seen Methot in some old films, but if I did, I had no idea it was her. None of the other parts stand out...with the possible exception of Richard Dysart as Jack Warner.
The story line seems to be a rather sterile portrayal of Bogart's life. Films have unique abilities to tell a biography. But so do books. And frankly, a good book about Bogie is far more satisfying than this biopic.
I'm sure Kevin O'Connor (who???) did the best he could playing Bogie. But it was none too good. Yes, there was something about the face and the way he said certain things...but this is another example where a famous person's persona was so unique that probably no one could quite capture it. And...pardon me...but O'Connor's teeth were a constant distraction for me. Similarly, Kathryn Harrold's portrayal of Lauren Bacall missed the mark, as well. Though not quite as unique as Bogie, Bacall just didn't look or sound like this portrayal of her.
As far as Ann Wedgeworth's portrayal of Mayo Methot...I have no idea. I suppose I've seen Methot in some old films, but if I did, I had no idea it was her. None of the other parts stand out...with the possible exception of Richard Dysart as Jack Warner.
The story line seems to be a rather sterile portrayal of Bogart's life. Films have unique abilities to tell a biography. But so do books. And frankly, a good book about Bogie is far more satisfying than this biopic.