Bryan Cranston creates a distinctive character as Dalton Trumbo, a successful screenwriter in 40s Hollywood until the Communist scare got him blacklisted. Although there are plenty of other interesting performances (Helen Mirren as Hedda Hopper is especially delicious), it’s dominated by Cranston/Trumbo’s wiseacre dialogue and outsize personality. The period recreations add visual appeal and the costumes are especially attractive (every tie is fantastic). The writing is snappy and involving, but the story sags in the middle when the drama drags it down. Still, a fascinating history lesson centered around Cranston’s potent portrayal.
(3.5 / 5)