Jimmy Hollywood (1994) User Reviews (23)

Hollywood ending, ironically, hurts potentially good movie

[isleworld-1 · 4/10 · 26 June 2006]

Director Barry Levinson would have done well to heed the old line that if you are going to go up to the bell, ring it. Levinson flirts many times with themes much larger than this small film, but he never stays with them.

The vapidity of celebrity, the seedy death of Hollywood, even indications of the descent into madness all are brought up but are not followed through. And flashes of brilliance throughout the film are forgotten as the credits roll because of the cheap Hollywood ending.

Levinson certainly had a capable cast. Joe Pesci, Victoria Abril (in a rare English-first roll), and an astonishingly effective performance by Christian Slater are wasted as this film runs from theme to theme but never focuses long enough to flesh out the thoughts. Even the comedy becomes sporadic in the latter half of the film.

This is worth a rental just to see how a potentially good movie about Hollywood is damaged by its conventions.

Is he still acting?

[Bernie4444 · 6/10 · 14 December 2023]

An aluminum siding salesman Jimmy Alto (Joe Pesci) moves to Hollywood to become an actor. He even rents an ad on a bench. He even comes close a few times to get apart.

The one time he leaves his radio in his car it is misappropriated leaving a broken window in the process. Jimmy upset decides to film the perpetrator in the act. He enlists the help of his forgetful buddy William (Christian Slater). His successes with the operation and the 56-second spot on the news, makes him realize that this is "Acting". His friend signed a note to the police with the initials SOS, thus starting the invention of an organization called "Save Our Streets.

Everything starts to snowball from here. The police think they are up against another SLA. The people think it is another Charles Bronson. William does not think. Jimmy thinks he is acting. And Jimmy's on and off girl Lorraine (Victoria Abril) thinks he is for real and does not know it.

What do you think?

ok

[313AliAlSajjad · 5/10 · 28 December 2021]

Jimmy sees himself as a method actor, dedicated to his craft, but he can't land a part. That's similar to Dustin Hoffman's role in "Tootsie", which Barry Levinson is connected to by some uncredited writing. The similarity does not end there.

Fun, charming, bittersweet, give it a chance!

[mdukas-1 · 20 October 2004]

If you have ever lived in LA, you may have started to wonder what ever happened to the Hollywood of glamour, romance and dreams. This movie takes on that question, and with a dynamite duo of Joe Pesci and Victoria Abril doing the honors (Christian Slater is there too, but his part is that of a spaced-out guy, so he does not have too much to add). Its funny, visually interesting, the plot moves along at a good clip, and it has lots of nice small touches. I definitely think it is worth your while, if you have ever lived in LA, or visited Hollywood, or had that sinking feeling of driving through the intersection of Hollywood and Vine. Victoria Abril is terrific and Joe Pesci is relentless, and hilarious with his blond hair.

Whoa! What was I thinking?

[cage445 · 1/10 · 17 September 2005]

This is the type of movie actors appear in when they're trying to revive their dead in the water "career". Something Joe Pesci and Christian Slater should not have to resort to.

Pesci and Slater are outstanding actors and should have known better than to accept these roles. This film takes away from their real talent. The script is too reminiscent of Slaters' film "Pump Up the Volume." I was grateful to see this film for free on local television rather than renting it or God forbid, paying to sit in a theater with no hope of escape.

If IMDb doesn't like these type of reviews- then maybe they shouldn't have this option available -after reading guidelines-.

Hopeful and Pleasant

[MrsClarenceWorley · 7/10 · 18 September 2006]

Let me start by saying I was born in Hollywood, California and I have lived in Los Angeles all of my life thus far. In my childhood I would watch movies and hear about "Hollywood" in all its magic and glory and wonder, are we thinking about the same Hollywood? Are they SURE its the one I live in? Hollywood has always been home to me, but a home with a lot of putrescence and perversion. Yet in all its filth, and believe me it is FILTHY, I still love it...I love the movies and I believe that Hollywood was once magical, was once a place like no other. And sometimes if you block out the bothersome aspects of Hollywood, it still is. Jimmy Alto's and William's idealism in trying to make a difference in a city they love is something I immediately related to and deeply appreciated.

I love Christian Slater as William; he is such a strange but sweet character, so pleasantly lost, and Slater's portrayal is delightful.

For anyone who loves Hollywood, and movies in general, this film is a must.

Levinson's Love Of Hollywood Is Not Enough

[atlasmb · 5/10 · 8 August 2019]

Written and directed by Barry Levinson, this is a film with some amusing moments, but its pace is plodding and it feels too derivative.

Joe Pesci plays Jimmy Alto, a self-described actor who takes odd jobs and lives a life dedicated to the movies, celebrating stars like Cagney and Brando. Jimmy is similar to (My Cousin) Vinny in temperament and behavior. Christian Slater plays William, Jimmy's best friend, who is reserved and somewhat backward, presumably due to brain damage. William is similar to the role of Adam in "Untamed Heart". Both of those films, which came just before this production, were better vehicles. And they both starred Marisa Tomei.

Jimmy sees himself as a method actor, dedicated to his craft, but he can't land a part. That's similar to Dustin Hoffman's role in "Tootsie", which Barry Levinson is connected to by some uncredited writing. The similarity does not end there.

Jimmy's girlfriend is played by Victoria Abril. Her part is interesting, but rather small.

Levinson channels his love of cinema and its history, which makes for some interesting moments, especially if you share his passion. But the film never becomes more than a curiosity and its ending is anticlimactic.

comedy film "Jimmy Hollywood" with a soul

[clif-moberg · 7/10 · 21 November 2010]

The film is now 16 years old; perhaps writing a review isn't important. Yet, because of the sincerity of Pesci's character, and the development of a purpose for his life, and his willingness to abide Christian Slater's "slow" character, we gain appreciation for Mr. Pesci personally. He does not falter in his faithfulness to his lady-friend, even though a younger Hawaiian lady comes his way and they get "liquored up" together. Anyone who has had items stolen and yet received no favorable police-work outcome will agree with the character's frustration over theft of the car stereo and decision to make public the facts of local crime. All the sideshow techniques by "Jerico" as they escalate demonstrates the insatiable progressive desire of the public for increase in excitement over just about anything. Pesci understood Hollywood, its deterioration, its aberration and yet he loves it still. He lost his Hollywood star count on Richard Widmark who, in some ways, is as serious a role portrayer as Mr. Pesci is here. The scene where the advertisement on the bus bench has been graffiti-ed is poignant, as is the concluding scene where the portable TV battery is running low, just as the prospects of the SOS is also about deflated. I don't advocate vigilantism, but the process of getting new police chiefs takes years, doesn't it?

unfortunately

[abdelrahmanbobnoureldein · 2/10 · 28 December 2021]

Into the role of the leader of the fictitious gang leader and finds the media recognition he's always craved. However he must continue his role in order to maintain the coverage. However as the police gradually put more resources onto finding the leader of this gang, Jimmy finds himself crossing the line of acting the role and being the role.

very slow but very good

[mrpicky · 7/10 · 31 July 2016]

I could not believe the 5* rating on a Barry Levinson movie, and I'm glad I did't. What we have here is unique in its kind movie about nature of fame and success in Hollywood. Jimmy is a bad actor and full on naive romantic trying to get a role in all the wrong ways he can imagine. Being bored to death he starts a vigilante joke on LAPD that goes too far, as he finds himself unable to adapt to the world he is living in. Film is very well written and shot, the only beef i have with it is that it's too slow. Unnecessary slow. Barry was trying to give it something like a dark|tragic side. He did not exactly succeed, but it's not a problem. Jimmy Hollywood is smart and funny, super rewarding for patient and observant viewer. I can only explain 5* rating by unlikabilaty of Jimmys character. Also it is a role of bad actor played by bad actor. Yet, it, somehow, all works! Believe me or not.

A must-see for any film fan.

[Hup234! · 9/10 · 20 April 1999]

"Jimmy Hollywood" is an underrated classic, with Joe Pesci as Jimmy Alto, wanna-be movie star and starry-eyed idealist. Its final scenes and Cinderella ending will leave you with the warm fuzzies, and I could recommend it just for that. But it's a unique tale of failure-turned-victory and any student of film will be able to identify with the likable Jimmy and his associates on the mean streets of the film capital. The supporting cast is well-chosen, and the plotline progresses evenly to its satisfying final wrap. If you liked "Ed Wood", "Jimmy Hollywood" could also be your ticket back to the movies as they were seldom seen by the rest of us.

Very underrated, Pesci at his best & one of Levinson's best !

[tomek-1 · 8/10 · 27 January 2003]

I admire Barry Levinson's work very much, he's done some great movies and when "Jimmy Hollywood" was airing in my TV, I thought, remembering a complete turkey which was "Bandits" (with Willis and Thornton, directed by Levinson) that this buddy-movie won't be better and I was totally, positively disappointed. Most simple is to say, that it's a one man-show by Joe Pesci, who simply IS Jimmy Alto, a "wanna-be" actor, who continuously looking for his chance in the film capitol of the World-Hollywood. The movie is funny, well-written, good-feeling, has great acting and... cameo of one of the biggest stars of today's cinema at the end. I was very surprised by Christian Slater's role, who always plays dynamic characters, and here it's a complete opposite performance. Also Victoria Abril, known from Almodovar movies, gives here very good acting as Pesci's fiancee. If you saw the poster to this movie, I can only tell that the movie is as COOL as Pesci and Slater cool-looking while sunbathing at the pool. I just can't imagine, how such great movie could earn only $3,6 mlns!!! That's a shame for american audience. I recommend it for everyone who searches for some intelligent entertainment and for all Joe Pesci fans.

Where´s is Zealand?

[gsoares · 10/10 · 6 January 2003]

There is so much content on this, it is just a shame such few people have seen it. It is brilliant, funny, sometimes sad and deep, but overall a story full of quotations. Joe Pesci is even greater than the usual, never mind the long blond hair. There is an astonishingly funny performance given by Christian Slater, to me his most impressive ever. Search for it everywhere you can and see for yourself.

Pleasant surprise

[dlanor_51 · 9/10 · 18 September 2005]

I just watched this movie and was delighted with all the characters. Pesci was not his usual hyper-character(which he does well)but somewhat subdued. At the same time being pushed by his hope of getting "the role" that has always eluded him. Finally, he finds it in reality.The ending was great! I never even heard of this movie before. I am glad I caught it and would recommend it.It made me laugh and made me feel sad also. At the end it did remind me of "The King of Comedy." Maybe not as well written but it kept me watching and grinning as well as feeling a bit nostalgic for the old Hollywood. Especially when 'Jimmy' and "Lorraine" were at Errol Flynns old house as they danced to the sounds of urban chaos.

Overlooked and Underrated

[dan6pitcher · 9/10 · 5 February 2001]

I have watched this movie about 5 times, and each time I become involved in the characters and their lives. It is a gripping plot, and the movie is well acted, Joe Pesci give another great performance. This is a movie which nobody has really seen or heard of, and that is sad to me. A movie with a good point (crime is bad and hope is good) and good acting should have made more money than any of the current Freddie Prinze Jr. or Sarah Michelle Gellar movies, but the movie world is not ruled by values and quality. I give this movie a 9.5/10 I'd even think about making this movie a perfect ten.

What's Left of Yesteryear

[McGee-4 · 9/10 · 7 February 1999]

Anyone not living in the immediate vicinity of our Mecca that is Hollywood, or knowing someone who does, may not recognize the appeal and ring of truth in "Jimmy Hollywood." How many actor friends living on borrowed ego (and credit cards) I see in this film; like Joe Pesce's character, we've shared those Hollywood streets of today and think how wonderful it would've been to walk among the early stars and the city THEY knew. It's enough to make anyone want to Save Our Streets...

Keeps you interested.

[liquor · 20 June 2003]

This movie was, to me, a teen generally interested and amused by movies like "Bill & Ted" and "Waynes World", trying too hard. It's not the fault of the actors and actresses (Victoria Abril was adorable, I got attatched to her character), but more the writers. This was supposed to be a comedy/drama and it turned out to be more of a strained drama with Joe Pesci. His character was loud mouthed, and rude, but sometimes a good, loyal friend would poke through. Like when he interacted with William (Christian Slater), his spaced out friend suffering from head trauma and anxiety due to an accident we never really learn much about.

Christian Slater's performance kept me watching the movie - he was very passive in this, and was very unlike his usual roles. I really like his William. He played it very well - I almost forgot I was watching Christian Slater, which is a sign of good acting. I would see this movie if you were a die-hard Christian Slater fan, but otherwise, don't bother.

This movie makes me smile...

[Krysalis · 10/10 · 14 October 1999]

I have never been to Hollywood California. But I have heard much of its demise. Jimmy Hollywood brilliantly shows not just the degeneration of a former golden town, but also provides a truly compelling performance as a mediocre, yet driven actor.

The sad part about this movie, is that people nowadays are not patient. They want everything in one big dose. Jimmy is slow to deliver in that sense, the movie takes its time. Those willing to wait, are very lucky. And those who are unwilling, miss a truly enjoyable experience.

See it. If you are perceptive and patient when it comes to movies. Otherwise, go see Titanic again.

Excellent option

[lunaluv3-569-445276 · 10/10 · 27 January 2019]

Hal Fishman!!!! Anyway, what a great movie and great acting. So many messages of what it is, what was and what will never be again!! Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness!! Many great peeps in this movie with shots of the L.A. most people will never know...along with some classic shots of places gone but not forgotten!! #brownderby

Half-decent satire

[bob the moo · 6 November 2001]

Jimmy (Joe Pesci) is an actor in Hollywood, scraping a living from his girlfriend and some casual jobs waiting for his big break. Most of his time is spent with drifter amnesiac William (Slater). When they catches a thief they video him and drop him off at a police station with a note from the SOS. When the SOS is given media coverage as a vigilante group, Jimmy finds himself drawn into the role of the leader of the fictitious gang leader and finds the media recognition he's always craved. However he must continue his role in order to maintain the coverage. However as the police gradually put more resources onto finding the leader of this gang, Jimmy finds himself crossing the line of acting the role and being the role.

Levinson wrote and directed this and it is obvious he's trying to say something. It's a satire of something - I'm just not sure what. Is he trying to say that the once-great LA has been ruined by crime and bad acting? Is it a satire on celebrity - where Jimmy becomes successful for bad reasons? Is it at poke a actors who work as waiters and kid themselves that they're getting somewhere? I'm not sure but I think it's a broad satire on celebrity and the nature of LA, and as such it's not great. The main story of Pesci is not clever enough to make as many good points as it could. At times it seem that it only really has a few points to make and paints them on thick.

Pesci is good as Jimmy - but it's really the same sort of hyper character he always plays. Slater is good as William and plays the dopey forgetful type well. The problem here is not with the actors or the direction (which is good) but with the script. The film is just not a great satire - it tries to cover similar ground as "The King of Comedy" but is too baggy and unfocused to make it's point well.

Joe Pesci is no De Niro, Jimmy is no Pupkin and this is no "King of Comedy". As a film it's entertaining enough but it is a bit laborious towards the end and is not as clever as it thinks it is. Overall an entertaining film that doesn't totally deliver when it comes to putting it's points across.

Amazing

[rms125a · 8/10 · 21 January 2019]

I never heard of this film and I read on Wikipedia that, sadly, it bombed at the box office, but I saw most of it on the Laff Channel yesterday (January 19, 2019) and was amazed.

Having missed the beginning I didn't know the two lead actors. I thought I recognized Pesci but the Don Johnson "Miami Vice"-era length hair and especially the blond dye or highlights threw me. I thought the actor I now know was Christian Slater was Ethan Hawke. Anyway, once you get used to the kinda silly blond locks Pesci's performance creeps up on you and becomes increasingly intense but consistent and occasionally a little scary. He is also moving and when you see his face in reaction shots, looking into his eyes, watching his sad little smiles, and hearing the determination in his voice as he sets upon a course of action that he knows may be his last, it is really transfixing. I wondered why he had not been nominated for Best Actor for his role, but now that I read the film bombed I guess that explains that. Christian Slater and Victoria Abril are excellent in their supporting roles.

I am not sure why this was on Laff TV because it is quite serious and tense until the post-pseudo climactic "ending" with the printed explanations of what happened to the characters of Jericho and William, and the true Hollywood satire with a guest star as himself reading for the role of "Jericho" in a film to be made about Pesci's character's antics. The contretemps end amicably and amusingly as Pesci walks the guest around and explains how the lines SHOULD be read.

Sominex on a movie reel. I can't think of a better way to describe this stinker.

[blackarachnia2 · 14 June 2003]

My friend and I went out to see this movie and I never thought I'd fall asleep during a Joe Pesi movie but this was one of those times. This movie was so boring, and so pointless. It had no plot or story that I remember.

By the time the movie ended I could hardly keep my head up. Nearing the end of the movie I was yawning and almost ready to fall asleep. My friend asked me if I wanted to leave the theater and I said "no let's wait until the end." I'm sorry I waited so long to leave.

Don't waste your time with this movie because I'm sorry I didn't get out of the theater when I had the chance to.

Joshua may have fought the battle at Jericho, but Jimmy Alto won the war.

[mark.waltz · 8/10 · 3 July 2023]

It's S. O. S. Time in Hollywood, and Oscar winner Joe Pesci is the general turning crime on its ear, fighting a car radio theft racket which upsets City Hall and the police more than it does the crooks, mainly because it makes law enforcement look like idiots, and shows that the inmates are running the asylum. Pesci, delivering one of his most likeable performances (in a movie that unreservedly slipped through the cracks), is hysterically funny, with a voice that sounds amazingly like Julie Kavner (Marge Simpson) and a hairstyle that gets giggles every time he gets a closeup. This is the only movie where someone recites in street address order a group of mostly long forgotten celebrities on the walk of fame...blindfolded.

In support, Christian Slater is much more subtle, obviously playing a character who has smoked more than his share of the happy grass. He plays a character determined to walk through life with no unhappiness, definitely a follower, and a very likeable one. Victoria Abril, as Pesci's tough talking but loving girlfriend, is also very good, and they are one of the most delightful odd couples to grace the screens ever. Obviously this was written with a whole lot of love of classic movies, as well as how the district of Hollywood used to be.

Having lived there back in the 80's, I recognized a lot of now gone businesses (Newberry's discount stores, one of the original five and dimes) and eateries (miss those old wooden greasy spoons), as well as the types of wonderful characters who would hang out on the boulevard, making it the Times Square of SoCal, both much changed. Director Barry Levinson has had many films now considered classics, but it's little sleepers like this that deserve the rediscovery. If you love quirky little films of how dreamers strive to go over their own rainbow, then this is the film for you.