In honor of Veterans Day, I went to see Jimmy at the movies. It's available for streaming, but when a decent film is in theatrical release these days, I like to support it. Besides, Jimmy Stewart is one of my all-time favorite actors. After watching the trailer, I knew it was must-see.
Jimmy is worth a trip to the cineplex. KJ Apa was phenomenal in the title role. He absolutely channeled Stewart--voice, mannerisms, and facial expressions. It was uncanny to watch. The movie is not a money maker, so it's doubtful he'll be recognized by the Hollywood awards crowd. But any awards aside, Apa's performance is truly remarkable.
The strong supporting cast includes Neal McDonough as Stewart's father and Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer. And remember little Zuzu from It's a Wonderful Life? After seeing the film, I read about her cameo role in Jimmy. I know I'll stream the movie for a second viewing for many reasons, not the least of which will be to savor her appearance.
There are more air combat scenes in the film than I expected. Despite knowing that Jimmy survives, the action sequences are gripping. The depictions of his men lost in battle and the mark it left upon Jimmy Stewart are the heart and soul of the movie.
Each year during Christmas time I watch It's a Wonderful Life. I always tear up at the bar scene, when Jimmy's character George Bailey is praying in desperation. I've read numerous accounts of the filming of that poignant scene. The tears Jimmy Stewart sheds were not in the script; majority opinion holds that he was thinking of and weeping for the men lost in action under his command.
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| The story of a Hollywood star who became a war hero. |
