
J. Edgar
2011, Biography/History, 2h 17m
247 Reviews 25,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
Leonardo DiCaprio gives a predictably powerhouse performance, but J. Edgar stumbles in all other departments with cheesy makeup, poor lighting, confusing narrative, and humdrum storytelling. Read critic reviews
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Where to watch
J. Edgar Photos
Movie Info
As head of the FBI for nearly 50 years, J. Edgar Hoover (Leonardo DiCaprio) becomes one of America's most-powerful men. Serving through eight presidents and three wars, Hoover utilizes methods both ruthless and heroic to keep his country safe. Projecting a guarded persona in public and in private, he lets few into his inner circle. Among those closest to him are his protege and constant companion, Clyde Tolson (Armie Hammer), and Helen Gandy (Naomi Watts), his loyal secretary.
Cast & Crew
Leonardo DiCaprio
J. Edgar Hoover
J. Edgar Hoover
Naomi Watts
Helen Gandy
Helen Gandy
Armie Hammer
Clyde Tolson
Clyde Tolson
Josh Lucas
Charles Lindbergh
Charles Lindbergh
Judi Dench
Annie Hoover
Annie Hoover
Ken Howard
Harlan Fiske Stone
Harlan Fiske Stone
Critic Reviews for J. Edgar
Audience Reviews for J. Edgar
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Jan 14, 2017J. Edgar was a somewhat confusing narrative, although it was well acted. The story content is almost boring in a sense when I really think about it, there are tons of dull parts. This is the kind of film I can appreciate, but would not watch again.Jarrin R Super Reviewer
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Nov 22, 2013[img]http://images.rottentomatoes.com/images/user/icons/icon14.gif[/img]Directors C Super Reviewer
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Feb 26, 2013A little long and somewhat boring/slow at times, but the acting was very good.Erin C Super Reviewer
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Feb 05, 2013MAD HOOVER DOES NOT SUCK OK, forget the make-up on poor old Clyde Tolson, Hoover's gay 'partner', especially in the stroke scene at the end. It is beyond terrible. But this well written, acted and directed take on the life and career of the FBI founder is very good indeed, if you have half a brain. Eastwood and Shane Black are clear about Hoover as a person, and as an American icon - he was driven, mad, a repressed homosexual, who used his office to glorify himself and wield incredible power for an unelected figure. And yet.... He also contributed greatly to the modernisation of police work (imagine the CSI without Hoover), and championed the use of real evidence in criminal proscecutions. I found it a more truthful portrait than any other, as no villain sees himself as evil, but as good. DeCaprio is excellent throughtout the film. He plays Hoover at all stages of his worklife, and the make up on him is pretty good. It is during his rise that DeCaprio shines through as the quality performer. It may sound odd, but he has blossomed into a great actor, as De Niro predicted, with excellent performances in Scorsese's films and so many others. His baby face may still be there, but he is a formidable actor; along with Day Lewis, one of the very best of his generation. The convoluted nature of the storytelling is intelligent, but sometimes undermines the force of the film. It is difficult to find the governing idea - that one man's life, no matter how flawed, can still be great? That one man's flaws can overwhelm whatever good a man does? This did not make the film a waste of time, it made it interesting. It was left to the audience to ask and answer these big questions, and I, for one, found myself fascinated.Richard B Super Reviewer
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