“Mank”

7.9

Gary Oldman shines as the secret screenwriter behind the masterful manuscript of “Citizen Kane.” Hollywood studio politics, national politics, and international politics all collide in a wonderfully witty and dramatic period piece.

The black and white cinematography was a solid choice and lent itself to the story’s style itself. I felt truly immersed in the narrative the entire runtime. It strikes me as somewhat predictable that, of course, the famous author-screenwriter is a hellacious lush. Oldman finds an outstanding balance and hits all the necessary notes to round out the main character. I had no idea the hidden agendas behind all of the classic tale characters. Very well done!