The Last Movie Star (I) (2017) User Reviews (137)

Nice Film

[Sober-Friend · 8/10 · 6 April 2018]

Burt Reynolds plays a version of himself (he even interacts with his old movies) and the film delivers not only huge laughs but also has an emotional center that at times make you hate then love the main character in the span of a few seconds.

In this film an older actor is invited to a film festival to pick up his life achievement award. This prompts him to do some serious soul searching. Along the way he realizes how lucky he was and most of see the errors of his life.

Well worth seeing.

Finally, Burt's Swan Song.

[imbluzclooby · 7/10 · 8 September 2018]

Burt was my hero growing up for many of the reasons why many other guys liked him: his charisma, charm, smarmy attitude, rogue behavior and wit. He had qualities that so many stars lack. In his most personal role ever he recounts the pivotal cornerstones of his life, the good times. the bad times and the success which also destroyed much of what he cherished. The most touching part comes at the end where he addresses the audience at his award ceremony with painful honesty and humility. It's definitely a humanistic picture where we see a former icon come to terms with himself. Worth a look.

Life Imitates Art Imitates Life

[nomadatoll · 8/10 · 28 March 2018]

Given the difficulties and constraints of completing a project like this, I was pleasantly surprised. Solid performances by all, both legendary and fresh talent. A few scenes struggled, but in general an enjoyable romp down memory lane for Vic Edwards the character and Burt Reynolds the actor.

Burt Reynolds awe-inspiring performance is not to be missed!

[amyschulz · 31 March 2018]

This smartly written, emotional rollercoaster masterpiece by Adam Rifkin showcases Burt Reynolds acting at his best. Burt's genuine vulnerability and charisma pops off the screen and into your heart. You cannot help but love the movie and Burt. It's incredible!

Wild Strawberries

[Oroloro · 6/10 · 7 March 2018]

Think of this as Ingmar Bergman's "Wild Strawberries" or Woody Allen's Strawberries/"Deconstructing Harry." It's a sweet film enhanced by Burt Reynolds performance. Underrated as an actor with great comedic timing, his charm helps bring depth to this film. Some technical glitches and sentimental moments, but an enjoyable tale.

This movie should rank higher

[gfrost7617 · 7/10 · 22 June 2022]

Great film. Burt Reynolds was the movie star of the 1980's. We all get old and try to reconcile what we've done and what we haven't done and the consequences. This film explores explores that along with people at beginning of their career. Worth a watch.

Pleasantly surprised, emotionally touched

[jakeh · 9/10 · 30 March 2018]

Quite honestly I was prepared to dislike this movie. I couldn't pin down exactly why but was I very wrong. I was extremely touched with this thought provoking look at celebrity and age. I have not seen any actor portray their aging with such honesty in their later movies. Reynolds was fabulous and still as blunt and straight forward in his approach to the part as he has before in most of his movies. Ariel Winter, whose character I detested at the beginning, did an excellent job as Reynolds escort at a film festival in Nashville. His life story was a learning experience for her and a teaching lesson on how growing older comes with trials, tribulations, and regrets which she could learn from as she goes on with her own life. Wonderful acting by both, and a must see movie. Simply put, I think it's the best work Reynolds has ever done.

Funny, thought provoking

[muchiemix · 7/10 · 23 April 2018]

The movie did exactly what it was supposed to do, delivered some laughs and at the same time nudged me to self-reflect on my life. The script was easy to follow and the cast did a great job on it. Was worth my time

Touching movie

[jmoore-37639 · 10/10 · 30 March 2018]

I can't believe how much I was affected by this movie. I rarely if ever cry watching a movie, and this one brought tears to my eyes. Watching Burt Reynolds examine his life made me think of my own. The mistakes I've made. The joys I've experienced. And how much I regretably just let pass me by. This is possibly one of the best movies I've seen in a long time.

A proper movie star

[bryangary65 · 7/10 · 24 January 2019]

Must admit that in the past have never really been interested in a Burt Reynolds film

So a pleasant surprise to say that I enjoyed this movie, where Burt basically played himself

Cleverly done and a grand supporting role by young Ariel Winter who is going to be a big star

Very sad

[christophersarles · 5/10 · 15 March 2021]

This was his last movie and many watching don't realize how much was true. He DID study with stella and he WAS in Brando's class and was considered by many to be better than Brando. The scenes where he reflects on his life were all TRUE. This is a farewell from a man who chose to be the eternal clown, chose to make us all laugh, rather than expose any of the pain that could have truly lifted him into the category of the great ones. The character name may have been fake but the clips and the tales were true and it was really frigging SAD. This wasn't a comedy, it was a eulogy, for one of the biggest stars in the world, who nobody really ever knew at all, and his attempt to let us all in on the secret.

This hurts...

[dongillette1 · 10/10 · 1 July 2018]

Burt Reynolds is a great actor. He took a few departures for the money during his career, but he's still one great actor. Watching this thing hurt, because I'm in my mid-60's. This is coming... 5 years, 10 years, 15 years... I dunno, but it's coming. And Burt pulled this off beautifully which is something most of us couldn't do at his age. I'm glad I watched it and I hate that I watched it.

The Best Burt Reynolds has ever been

[mherrin-43253 · 7/10 · 8 June 2018]

The Last Movie Star: Written and directed by Adam Rifkin

The Last Movie Star stars Burt Reynolds as a former aging movie star who accepts a lifetime achievement award being given by a film festival run by kids fresh out of film school in a bar in Nashville. He thinks he is going to be given first class treatment when it is quite the opposite. He is taken by surprise with sitting coach, being chaffeured by Ariel Winter's barely running junkyard ornament and staying at a motel 6 like establishment. But being back in his home state reliving his life makes him confront what has become of it.

I have to say first off that I was pleasantly surprised by this movie. I was expecting a funny little comedy and I got a poignant thoughtful treatise on aging and being grateful for what you have. I was caught offguard to say the very least. This is Burt Reynolds' show all the way and it is easily his best performance since Boogie Nights perhaps even better than. He brings such raw emotion to the proceedings that you are blown away. He deserves all kinds of awards for what he brought to this film.

This movie also has a whole host of interesting actors from Ariel Winter in a very loud bombastic performance, Clark Duke who we might remember a bit from Hot Tub Time Machine(the first one obviously) and Nikki Blonsky from Hairspray. I have to admit that the little film festival that could brought back some memories of film festivals very similar to that I attended. I might have a tiny bit of a bias when it comes to that. I loved even the terrible films I saw. It was a treat to relive that.

This was a warm and exceptionally well done movie with the Burt Reynolds' performance of a lifetime attached to it. This was a pleasant watch and you will not regret seeing this wonderful movie. I give this movie a B.

a pointless exercise for everyone involved

[dave-mcclain · 2/10 · 8 April 2018]

"The Last Movie Star" (R, 1:34), originally titled "Dog Years", is a 2017 drama written and directed by Adam Rifkin and filmed in Tennessee. It's about an aging movie star who still has some lessons to learn about fame. Rifkin wrote the lead role for Burt Reynolds, without whom he says he wouldn't have made the film. According to IMDb, Reynolds calls the role the most "honest" he has played or ever would play.

Reynolds plays Vic Edwards, a version of himself, with archive interview footage and film clips from his career supporting the plot. Vic is still living in L.A. where it seems that his only social interactions come in the form of regular meetings at a café with Sonny (Chevy Chase), his only real friend. Vic is very much out of the spotlight and well past his prime. When he gets a film festival invitation in the mail asking him to come and receive a lifetime achievement award, he doesn't plan on going until Sonny convinces him.

The invitation is from the International Nashville Film Festival - which is NOT the (much) better known Nashville International Film Festival - BIG difference. Vic is picked up at the airport by Lil (Ariel Winter), a rude, self-centered, tatted-up millennial who drives a barely running car and argues with her boyfriend over the phone while driving. She takes Vic to his (cheap) hotel, then takes him to the festival - at a bar.

In spite of the hero worship poured on him by the festival organizers, Lil's big brother, Clark (Doug McDougal) and Shane (Ellar Coltrane), who has a crush on Lil, and their friend, Stuart (Al-Jaleel Knox), who videos Vic's every move, Vic is sorry he came. He talks Lil (his promised driver for the weekend) into driving him 3 hours to Knoxville, where Vic was born and raised, so he can hobble down memory lane.

"The Last Movie Star" is a pretty pointless exercise for all concerned. Rifkin wants to honor Reynolds, but wrote a lackluster script which he lazily directs. Reynolds (I'm assuming here) took the role because he wanted to be liked again, but Vic is a mostly unlikeable character, and Reynolds' performance is by-the-numbers predictable. Winter is clearly trying to distance herself from her "Modern Family" character and transition to more adult roles (especially after several animated movies), but it feels like she's trying too hard. This film is meant to be a reflection on fame and aging, but has nothing new to say about either. For a well-done movie about aging, watch the late Harry Dean Stanton in "Lucky", for one about an aging movie star (who receives a lifetime achievement award), check out Sam Elliot in "The Hero" (both of those movies also from 2017), but when it comes to seeing movies about celebrity or aging, save this one for "last". "C-"

Flawed But a Nice End for Reynolds

[Michael_Elliott · 28 September 2018]

The Last Movie Star (2017)

*** (out of 4)

Burt Reynolds plays Vic Edwards who is basically a version of himself. In the movie Vic finds himself being invited to a Nashville film festival, which he thinks is a grand finale to his career. What he doesn't realize is that it's a very low-rent festival ran by some young fans of his and it turns out to be an event where he really gets to question of the of choices that he made with his life.

THE LAST MOVIE STAR wouldn't be Reynolds' final film but there's no question that it's a rather fitting way for the actor to do go. This here would be an April release and the actor would be able to do a lot of press for it before his death that September. If you're a fan of the legendary actor then you're going to get a lot of the nods that are in the film including some clips used from DELIVERANCE and SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT. This film certainly has a fair number of flaws but there's no question that it allows Reynolds a time to shine.

There's no doubt that the movie is quite depressing and especially considering most will be watching it after Reynolds' death. I watched it a couple weeks afterwards and there's no question that you'll be rather depressed watching it as it's clear the star was playing himself and also dealing with a lot of personal issues. You can't help but watch the film and be somewhat depressed as Reynolds talks about getting old and and having to face the end broke and alone. It's even more depressing hearing him talk about the bad choices that he made throughout his career.

Writer-director Adam Rifkin certainly knows his star very well and his tender direction perfectly captures what it must be like growing old and having to look back at your life with some regret as well as some happiness at what you were able to do. Of course, the main reason to watch this is for Reynolds performance and he is actually quite great here. Playing yourself is never an easy thing to do and it was great getting to see the star get to shine one more time. Ariel Winter does a nice job with her role as the sidekick and Clark Duke was also good as is Chevy Chase in his couple scenes.

THE LAST MOVIE STAR isn't exactly original as there have been many other movies with fading stars coming to terms with the end of their careers. I'd say the film also owes a little to SCENT OF A WOMAN but with that being said, Reynolds' shines once more so fans of his will want to check this out.

If your a Burt Fan

[jason-fields · 7/10 · 3 June 2018]

It's cool to see them pair him up with his old self in the older Burt movies. Glad to see he still has something else that he can do and give back even as an older actor. Love ya Burt !

Surprisingly great

[dar0417 · 7/10 · 14 February 2020]

The best Burt Reynolds movies in a while. Entertain to say the least. Surprisingly great

Heart warming story of life

[markccorcoran · 9/10 · 28 March 2018]

I watched the movie with my elderly parents and all 3 of us really enjoyed this movie. It is a role only Burt Reynolds could do. Good acting. It was heart warming and had good comedy to it. Reflection of a life time with a very entertaining way of telling the story.

heartwarming and moving

[drmahmudi · 7/10 · 25 June 2019]

It's a example of good small and yet heartwarming movie. Although the ending is almost predictable, but the way that the film goes on atracts you and you wouldn't be bored or disappointed. All performances are good but it's Burt Reynolds acting that saves the day for movie. His performance takes you to the heart of the story and would not leave you after. It's true that there's a number of times that the decisions made by characters doesn't seem rational or thoughtful, but it can be ignored and yet enjoy the film.

I have no idea how this great movie still rated 6 out of 10

[MarwanMohsen91 · 10/10 · 19 April 2018]

"the last movie star" what a journey for an hour and a half, this movie not like most of you would thought, it has a great depth that will not only touch your heart but believe me it will touch your soul. most of you gonna think yeah its about a legend actor who isn't have much fame like he used to be but no

this movie is talk about our fear, no one afraid from death believe me we just afraid of be forgotton, we fear getting old and see every one we love just disappear this movie its just great, great acting, wonderful directing and writing from Adam Rifkin who i want to really thanks and no im not crying I think something got into my eye and Burt Reynolds you are a real legend thanks for all you give us

Burt Reynolds is a comic treasure!

[mitchco10 · 7/10 · 15 February 2021]

Where did this movie come from? " The Last Movie Star" is a comic farce and a joy to watch. Burt Reynolds always had that " who the hell cares, it's just show biz " thing , and proves it again in this virtually unknown swan song for Burt. It's really fun. I just ran into it on cable, and it's worth a watch!

A 'B' movie about a 'B' movie actor

[cekadah · 5/10 · 24 April 2018]

Don't get me wrong about this movie - it's just an ok movie. Burt Reynolds mostly walks through this script and at times appears to actually be trying, with great effort, to be Vic Edwards and not Burt Reynolds. And Chevy Chase was obviously used just for his name.

The supporting staff are the stars in this movie! Ariel Winter & Clark Duke are to be thanked for giving this movie enough fun and sparkle for any viewer to stick with the story.

WOW... Powerful, Emotional, Honest,

[kenjackson-340-198038 · 9/10 · 10 April 2018]

I chose to watch this film, frankly, because I was bored and wanted to waste a couple of hours, not really expecting too much... but WOW.... This has to be one of Burt Reynolds finest films. Forget about his previous cheesy corny guffawing, winking-at-the-camera roles, this is a powerful raw honest, emotional film, that not only echoes his own life, but also makes one examine their own lives, mistakes, and reflecting on one's own direction in life. Burt thoroughly deserves an award for this film. If you don't get a lump in your throat at the end, you are made of stone. Well worth watching.

Movie stars

[abcvision · 7/10 · 7 September 2018]

A true breakout comeback role for Burt Reynolds. It tracks the life of a once Hollywood superstar. Time stops for no one and this movie explores the complexity of life after a finicky public has passed on a star's glory days. Some poinent scenes that bring out Burt Reynolds acting skills. A touching tribute to this mega superstar. Dr Wilson Triviño

Nothing More Depressing than Growing Old. Tribute to Sugarbabe!

[thejcowboy22 · 4/10 · 7 July 2020]

I had a frightening experience this year . I had a close brush with death. Feeling weak and lethargic. My breathing became labored. What I was experiencing pneumonia. Luckily I made it to the hospital in time and was administered the adrenaline treatments to restore my breathing. I figured I would be released and sent home to recover but because of my age I was kept in the hospital with double IV's in each arm. In my mind I thought I was Forty but in reality I was in my sixties. Even my grown children were worried about my vulnerability. The timing was on my side as I was eventually released two weeks before a major pandemic which would rip the nation as well as the world in the name of Covid-19. Speaking of vulnerability, I caught an interesting retrospect of an old movie icon Burt Reynolds in The Last Movie Star. Burt plays a version of himself as the fictitious Vic Edwards. Edwards was a 1970's heartthrob and action hero in this story and now is reduced to an aged, decrepit elderly pill popping bachelor. Vic is told by his Veterinarian that his dog has to be put down. Alone at the supermarket Vic notices a pretty woman passing him by without even a glance. The former movie star realizes his best years are gone.. Vic meets with his friend Sonny (Chevy Chase) for coffee as the two elders talk about a mutual friend who died. Vic received an invitation to attend the Nashville Film Festival where he will be honored with first class accommodations . Vic is skeptical about going but Sonny urges him to attend and honor his loyal fans. The first class treatment /accommodations. Vic finds himself in coach (middle seat) and then arriving at the airport expecting a stretch limousine, but instead a broken down Chevy with the driver named Lil (Ariel Winter). Lil, a cheeky tattooed nose ringed millennial dressed in black vest and black shorts. Lil is irate on her cell phone yelling at her aloof boyfriend Bjorn (Justin Street). Vic is waiting to get in her car but Lil has no interest in the guest of honor. Lil continues to yell and insult her boyfriend as her driving is much to desired. The first class accommodations are off the interstate highway in the way of an Econo Lodge complete with kitchen, a microwave. No sooner as our complaining Lil on the phone with her nerdy Brother Doug (Clark Duke) who put this event together. Doug wants to know how are star is doing? All Lil wants to do is dump our celebrity off at the premiere. Vic is appalled to find that the grand opening is in a Bar put together by Nerdy wannabees fresh out of college. Embarrassed and reluctant Vic find solace in going to the bar to get juiced. As your watching your wondering how much worse this story gets for Vic? Our tale takes a different turn here as Lil eventually takes Vic to the Airport leaving the sub-standard festival behind. Vic notices an exit sign for Knoxville and makes Lil take him there. The rest are flashbacks and surprises which enhance this tribute to a great celebrity of years past but goes ever deeper into the character of Vic Edwards. Vic fondly tells about his life before Hollywood and fame. Visiting his childhood home and gridiron where he played College ball. His real motivation was to visit a loved one. His first wife Claudia (Kathleen Nolan). The real true love of his life despite 4 failed Hollywood marriages. You see the relationship blossom between Lil and Vic as the movie flows along. You also learn about each other's wants and needs . Fatherly advice from the elder Vic as he inspires Lil to move into a different direction through conversation on their car rides. Special effects gets a mention here as Vic Edwards has dreams and flashback scenes which put the older Vic with the younger Vic in classic movie scenes of his past works. The cinematography showcasing the majestic Tennessee River and the sights of Knoxville in all it's grandeur makes you want to visit the Volunteer State. I know there are some that don't like our star but why wouldn't you be jealous about a man who was good looking, athletic dated/married some of Hollywood's finest lovelies. That never deterred me from liking Burt Reynolds. Burt was different. In his heyday, he had this masculine charm coupled with a goofball sense of humor and he never really took himself seriously. Just a good old boy from Florida who made the most of an illustrious career. As for the Sugarbabe reference. Kathleen Nolan was familiar to fans of the TV show called The Real McCoy's. Kathleen played the matriarch of the family as her husband referred to her as Sugarbabe.