Duke Johnson is a unique filmmaker known for his artistic approach, especially in his collaborations with Charlie Kaufman, such as the Oscar-nominated film “Anomalisa.” His latest project, “The Actor,” marks his first solo live-action feature and adapts Donald Westlake’s novel Memory. Though originally written in the 1960s, the book was published in 2010, giving Johnson a fascinating story to reimagine.
In “The Actor,” Johnson explores the life of Paul Cole, played brilliantly by André Holland. Paul is an amnesiac actor who grapples with his shattered identity. The film opens dramatically with Paul being assaulted, leaving him lost and in a strange place without memory of who he once was. This surreal narrative shape-shifts into a poignant study of self-discovery. Holland brings depth to every scene, infusing Paul’s journey with a profound sense of sadness. The film makes you feel the weight of being lost in a world that feels both familiar and alien.
As Paul navigates his new life in the Midwest, he takes a job at a tannery to survive, showcasing the stark reality faced by someone stripped of their past. Johnson plays with the concept of identity by having different characters portrayed by the same actors, including Toby Jones and Tracey Ullman. However, it’s Gemma Chan’s character, who captivates Paul at a movie theater, who seems to genuinely see him, hinting at hope amidst his confusion.
The film takes a deeper turn when Paul returns to New York City, where he must confront his past. A pivotal scene arises when Paul’s friends share a hurtful joke about a homeless person, prompting Paul to question the kind of man he was before losing his memory. It raises profound questions: Can forgetting who he was allow him to become a better person? Is this a chance to redefine himself?
Shot on a sound stage in Budapest, “The Actor” embraces a dreamlike quality through soft cinematography by Joe Pasarelli and theatrical design. Johnson, known for his thought-provoking storytelling, continues to explore what it means to be someone who changes their identity for work. The character of Paul Cole reflects on the complexity of finding one’s real self when life feels theatrical.
Despite its rich themes, the film sometimes struggles with pacing. Ideas are introduced but not fully explored, akin to fragments of a dream. Yet, Holland’s performance anchors the film and brings its emotional core to life. In a memorable scene toward the end, he experiments with various expressions in front of a mirror. This moment captures his struggle with identity beautifully, showcasing Holland’s subtlety as an actor and leaving a lasting impression.
Ultimately, “The Actor” serves as a thought-provoking exploration of memory, identity, and the possibility of redemption. Much like real life, it may not offer neat resolutions, but it invites viewers to reflect on their own sense of self and the narratives we create.
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