Hollywoodland History and Review
Movie Review: Hollywoodland is a Super Example
By Jeff Herring
Just saw the movie Hollywoodland, about the life and suicide of
actor George Reeves, TV's first Superman.
The movie does a nice job of laying out the
conspiracy theories that claim Reeves did not commit suicide but was
murdered, either accidently or on purpose.
Watch for the boom mic in scene where actor
Ben Affleck as George Reeves burns his Superman costume.
Here is the theme that I notice the most -
George Reeves, a struggling young actor is handed a brass ring, the
role of the first Superman on TV. The show is a great success, and
he becomes a celebrity.
Not a bad gig, right?
The problem shows up when it becomes clear
that Reeves is not satisfied with this role, and wants to be a
"serious actor." While this desire is certainly understandable, it
is a shame that Reeves could not or would not appreciate the brass
ring he was handed.
The implication is this disappointment is life
is what led to his suicide.
Perhaps I saw this movie too much through my
eyes as a therapist/coach, but it made me think of how so often we
refuse to delight in the blessings around us and always yearn for
more somehow.
I walked out of the theater feeling sad about
the life and death of George Reeves, and very appreciative of my
life and blessings.
