This film, although containing a surfeit of good intentions and ultra-sincere performances (especially Ed Harris), ultimately failed for me, despite my interest in art in general, and in Jackson Pollock in particular. Both the story and the character are opaque at best and non-descript at worst. Real Pollock's story contains many very interesting and potentially juicy elements, for example his relationship and contempt for his true champion and patron, Peggy Guggenheim, are not given any coherent treatment and merely hinted at. We are not given any indications as to where Pollock's rages or his alcoholism are coming from and secondary characters, including Lee Krasner are pure cardboard. Pollock's views on art are not made clear (except briefly in a radio interview - and even here it is hard to tell if Pollock really means it or is just being facetious, or drunk - it could be either). Many scenes are simply inexplicable, like the one with the documentary-maker - it is not clear what is meant by them, what they contribute to the story or to the character. On the positive side, the movie is brilliantly shot and the painting scenes are quite well done.
