Factotum, directed by Norwegian Bent Harmer, will inevitably draw comparisons to the seminal Barfly, another famous film that was inspired by the writer Charles Bukowski. (Factotum is based on a novel by Bukowski) The standout performance by Mickey Rourke, who seemed to be channeling The Pink Panther in his interpretation of the Bukowski character, is the highlight of the film. And in this film, Matt Dillion, also gives an inspired performance that makes his usual film persona disappear as he inhabits the laconic and understated alpha male that is Henry Chinaski. I think he particularly gets the character across in his physicality. He gets excellent support from Lili Taylor as Jan and an almost unrecognizable Marisa Tomie as Laura. I found the story of low-life urbanity a bit tedious and uninspiring-getting canned from low level jobs due to his alcoholism as he tries to write amid the distractions of booze, broads, and the horses. All in all, an interesting film nonetheless, if not only for Dillion's notable performance.
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