Tolkien
Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Lily Collins, Derek Jacobi
Directed by: Dome Karukoski
Rated: PG-13
You’re familiar with the work of author J.R.R. Tolkien, but what went on in his life to inspire the literary classics The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings?
Dome Karukoski’s film Tolkien looks to explore the creative inspiration throughout the life of J.R.R. Tolkien that would eventually lead to his most acclaimed literary works. The film begins when Tolkien is a teenage boy and moves to his time as a professor at Oxford. While there are many interesting details about the author’s life throughout the film, the pacing and narrative structure are a major issue. The film is framed as Tolkien is stuck in the trenches of World War I. He’s viewing the life he’s lived so far through flashback sequences. The first act is downright difficult to sit through as it goes through all of his childhood and teenage years. We are introduced to his family and lifelong friends called the T.C.B.S. Yes, these friendships must be highlighted, considering they would eventually inspire the “fellowship” in his writings. However, there is way too much time spent on this group of 13-year-old boys in a tea room doing their homework. The final moments of the film are Tolkien sitting down to write The Hobbit. It would have been nice if more time could have been spent on his writing and less on his childhood.
Despite the frustrating narrative structure, the actors all do a fine job. Nicholas Hoult is captivating as Tolkien portraying the author as a genius with language. He’s quick to pick up on every word that’s said and can invent an imaginative story from the worst of situations. He finds encouragement with the TCBS. He’s very believable in the war sequences, capturing palpable desperation.
Lily Collins is Edith, Tolkien’s first love. In many ways, she is his muse and helps him find hope in difficult times. Collins and Hoult have excellent chemistry, and their relationship is one of the most intriguing aspects of the film.
It’s interesting to note the Tolkien family does not approve of this film. There are several elements of his life completely omitted from the script. Faith was a massive part of his life (and inspiration for his writing) yet it’s not mentioned in the film. He was best friends with C.S. Lewis, yet he’s never even mentioned in the movie. It’s just bizarre to omit such major details when attempting to make a biopic about someone.
Despite a few good lead performances, Tolkien is a dull biopic omitting important details of the famed author’s life.
My Rating: 5/10
*All images belong to Fox Searchlight Pictures