The Truman Show (1998)

Featured Audience Ratings

• John M

  
  One of the few times i could stand Jim Carrey. This movie was much better than i expected considering my dislike for Carrey

• Adriel L

  
  It's a bleak movie, yeah, in the sense your realize the follies of modern society, yes, but it deserves praise bringing into light the realities of our folly existence as a human society, it is funny, it is thoughtful, it is sad, and it is a great film that might just change the… More
  It's a bleak movie, yeah, in the sense your realize the follies of modern society, yes, but it deserves praise bringing into light the realities of our folly existence as a human society, it is funny, it is thoughtful, it is sad, and it is a great film that might just change the way you look at what life is, especially at our present age.

• Albert K

  
  Although this movie has a message that goes against my beliefs, "The Truman Show" is a provocative, well-made, and thought-provoking film. Everything is meticulously put together. Still gonna hafta go against the message, but as a movie, it's phenomenal.

• Directors C

  
  There's nothing quite like The Truman Show. Its a comedy drama that provides terror as well as undeniable tension, with a sort of Spielberg set up and neither distract you from the fact the plot is ridiculous, simple but absolutely genius. Arguably Jim's best dramatic role.

• Alexander D

  
  I wouldnâ(TM)t say Jim Carrey is a great actor, and I wouldnâ(TM)t say Iâ(TM)m all too fond of him, either. He is a comedian that has his upsides (i.e. DUMB AND DUMBER, BRUCE ALMIGHTY) as well as his downsides (i.e. HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS, LIAR LIAR). It was odd but rather… More
  I wouldnâ(TM)t say Jim Carrey is a great actor, and I wouldnâ(TM)t say Iâ(TM)m all too fond of him, either. He is a comedian that has his upsides (i.e. DUMB AND DUMBER, BRUCE ALMIGHTY) as well as his downsides (i.e. HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS, LIAR LIAR). It was odd but rather pleasing to see him performing in THE TRUMAN SHOW, as we would never expect such a light-spirited comedian to play a role in such a heavy-headed drama. (Not that this wasnâ(TM)t somewhat satirical.) Itâ(TM)s not just the lack of hyperactivity we get a perspective of from Carrey; we get to see a suddenly amazing actor rather than a total goof-off. Peter Weir was the best part of this film, for me. I thoroughly enjoyed his earlier films such as DEAD POETS SOCIETY and WITNESS, and I absolutely loved MASTER AND COMMANDER from more recently. This, I would have to say, is the best Iâ(TM)ve seen of him yet. His creative blend of a stunning plot, voyeuristic views, a calming soundtrack of piano pieces (most notably Mozartâ(TM)s âRondo Alla Turcaâ�), and the most insanely unpredictable plot twists (should I italicize the words âinsanely unpredictableâ�?), make for a phenomenal motion picture. Furthermore, itâ(TM)s hard not to believe as a soap opera television series.

• Jeff "

  
  The Truman Show is a very different film from what Jim Carrey usually does. This is a very good film, and is one of the best performances by Jim Carrey. The Truman Show is different, and it's one of the many things that make this film good. The Truman Show is a comedy drama film… More
  The Truman Show is a very different film from what Jim Carrey usually does. This is a very good film, and is one of the best performances by Jim Carrey. The Truman Show is different, and it's one of the many things that make this film good. The Truman Show is a comedy drama film about a man who's unaware that his life is being broadcast to an audience. Peter Weir does a great job at helming the film, and he delivers a great film. What makes the film stand out is Jim Carrey and he really lights up the screen with his performance. He was perfect in the role. I don't think I can picture someone else in the role, as he really made it his own. The Truman Show is a great blend of comedy and drama, and it combines both elements well enough to not overdo it. The cast alongside Carrey are good, especially Ed Harris. The Truman Show is a flawed film, but for what it is, it's a good, entertaining film. The film shows that Carrey could do something other than straight forward comedies. An underrated film that should be seen. Peter Weir has made better films, but The Truman Show is still a worthwhile film to watch and it might strike a chord with you. Like I said, a flawed film, but worth seeing nonetheless. A refreshing performance by Jim Carrey, and actually one of my favorite performances by the actor. Heartwarming, charming, sad, funny, The Truman Show is all those things and more. Despite its flaws, it's a must see film.

• Jens S

  
  Peter Weir's instant classic about a man living his life in front of TV cameras (unbeknownst to him) includes nothing less than Jim Carrey's strongest performance to date. While he manages to squeeze some of his typical humor into the rather serious film, he's also… More
  Peter Weir's instant classic about a man living his life in front of TV cameras (unbeknownst to him) includes nothing less than Jim Carrey's strongest performance to date. While he manages to squeeze some of his typical humor into the rather serious film, he's also outstanding in the quiet, subtle scenes. That goes for all of the cast. As Truman slowly gets an idea that things in his small sea town life aren't exactly as they seem, it takes almost an hour until the audience gets a glimpse behind the curtain. Even the opening titles pretend that you are watching The Truman Show, not the film. The scene in which Truman stops traffic and breaks through his routine, accompanied by Phillip Glass' beautiful soundtrack is one of the great magic moments of movie history. A funny, sweet and sad tale about media control and fulfilling your dreams. Never getting preachy the film easily touches its audience and is an unforgettable experience.

• Scott G

  
  Jim's perky, well known character with a hint of depression only means an extraordinary performance from Mr. Carrey himself.

• AJ V

  
  A brilliant story, plot, cast, style, etc... Jim Carrey is perfect in this movie, and it lets you see he can do more than stupid comedies. This movie really makes you think while you laugh. I highly recommend it.

• Brad W

  
  The Truman Show is a classic movie and isone of my all time favorites. The plot is the bets part, it has so many deep meaning and truths about life, and is so great I can't explain it. Jim Carrey is perfect, proving hje is one of the best comedy drama actors there is. The… More
  The Truman Show is a classic movie and isone of my all time favorites. The plot is the bets part, it has so many deep meaning and truths about life, and is so great I can't explain it. Jim Carrey is perfect, proving hje is one of the best comedy drama actors there is. The production is incredible, its like we are following Truman in a actual giant TV show the whole time, and we want him to discover it. One of the greatest films of all time.

• Michael E

  
  It moves very slowly, and is extremely strange, but Carrey does a fantastic job as the main protagonist in a world that is all for him.

• Jameson W

  
  A truly fantastic film, a one of a kind masterpiece. The Truman Show is smart, unique, touching, and completely ahead of it's time. The filming style and the different camera angles really set the film apart and give it an authentic "reality T.V." feel, even though… More
  A truly fantastic film, a one of a kind masterpiece. The Truman Show is smart, unique, touching, and completely ahead of it's time. The filming style and the different camera angles really set the film apart and give it an authentic "reality T.V." feel, even though reality television wasn't that big at that time. Director Peter Weir really did a great job with this one! The screenplay was very excellent! It gives the film a higher level of charm and individuality. The film's story is in the "comedy drama" genre, so the script easily could have been a mess. But The Truman Show was brilliantly written and is able to deliver smart, sweet, humorous moments, but also deliver thought provoking commentary. In fact, I think that's one of the best attributes of the film. It is deep...deeper than alot of people realize. I think it delivers powerful commentary that is worthy of a serious viewing... The performances were good all across the board. Jim Carrey gives a fantastic performance as the main character, Truman Burbank. He's such a talented comedian, but he is also a worthy dramatic performer. He's able to do both here, so it's an even more well-rounded performance. Laura Linney also does a great job, she's one of my favorite actresses and I thoroughly enjoyed her performance. Ed Harris gives a phenomenal performance as the creator of the show, Christof. He recieved much praise for his performance, including an Oscar nomination, but I still feel this performance slipped under the radar. Truly, a wonderful performance. The Truman Show: A brilliant, brilliant film! Smart, fresh, funny, tragic, thought-provoking...excellent! Nominated for 3 Academy Awards including Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor, everyone needs to see this movie. One of my all time favorites!

• Fernando Rafael Q

  
  Stunning blend of sci-fi, drama and dark comedy depicts the ultimate reality show: the life of unwitting TV star, Truman Burbank, surprisingly played with restraint by Jim Carrey (who should stick to dramatic roles, in my opinion). With expert camerawork by director Peter Weir as well… More
  Stunning blend of sci-fi, drama and dark comedy depicts the ultimate reality show: the life of unwitting TV star, Truman Burbank, surprisingly played with restraint by Jim Carrey (who should stick to dramatic roles, in my opinion). With expert camerawork by director Peter Weir as well as Andrew Niccol's deft screenplay, The Truman Show is a masterpiece. I've been reading a lot of praise for Ed Harris's performance, but it just didn't resonate with me as much as Carrey or Laura Linney's. Instant favorite.

• Kristijonas F

  
  Although it's a tad too bitter-sweet to make for straight comedy fare, The Truman Show is otherwise a superbly written, creative and heart-warming story. The message it presents about our society's addiction of "reality-television" and other matters of privacy… More
  Although it's a tad too bitter-sweet to make for straight comedy fare, The Truman Show is otherwise a superbly written, creative and heart-warming story. The message it presents about our society's addiction of "reality-television" and other matters of privacy invasion, however, is the true gem in this film, and also remarkably resonant over a decade later.

• paul o

  
  The Truman Show was a film worth watching even though i wished they couldve added another 30 minutes. For me, I thought the whole movie went by so quickly before i noticed it had to make a conclusion. Andrew Niccoi wrote this after Gattaca and I am just impressed by the diversity he… More
  The Truman Show was a film worth watching even though i wished they couldve added another 30 minutes. For me, I thought the whole movie went by so quickly before i noticed it had to make a conclusion. Andrew Niccoi wrote this after Gattaca and I am just impressed by the diversity he puts in each of his scripts. Jim Carrey isn't that spontaneous Ace Ventura and also not that loving Joel Barish(Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind). Instead he plays Truman Burbank, the biggest star within his false reality.

• Jay H

  
  Very captivating, but it feels incomplete for some reason. Well-acted all around, with subtle comedic moments that will reward you for paying attention.

• Chris W

  
  This is one of those films that's really struck a chord with me ever since I first saw it. I liked it a lot then, but over time, it's really hit harder, what with "reality' TV becoming even more pervasive since this came out. Peter Weir, working with a script from… More
  This is one of those films that's really struck a chord with me ever since I first saw it. I liked it a lot then, but over time, it's really hit harder, what with "reality' TV becoming even more pervasive since this came out. Peter Weir, working with a script from the briliant and intelligent Andrew Niccol, delivers an intelligent and thought provoking dramedy about the consequences of media manipulation, and the effect it has on those who don't know (at first) what's been happening to them their whole lives. Jim Carrey, mainly known as a funny fan turned in a more serious role here, during a time when he began to dabble with something other than just pure comedy. He's great. He gives a sensitive and moving performance as a poor schmuck whose whole life has been a TV show without him ever knowing. Ed Harris is brilliant as the mastermind behind it all, and I really like Laura Linney and Natascha McElhone in their respective roles as players in on the charade. This is not a horror film or thriller, but God knows it certainly could be. While the movie is all cheery and mostly light-hearted, there are shades of a really dark underbelly. Despite how the scenario is played, this is really a pretty scary concept. As I recall, this was fairly well recieved by critics and audiences (especially critics), but I feel that it is really beginning to get the true appreciation it deserves given what I had previously mentioned about all that has taken place since this was first released. I don't want a situation like this to happen in real life, but I fear that it's probably an inevitability. The line between entertainment and intrusion needs to be drawn, and, while this film isn't super preachy, it works very well as a cautionary tale.

• Jeremy S

  
  An Intellectual masterpiece. The story of a lifetime. Provokes deep thought on important issues. How will it end? Simply genius, In a better world everyone would watch and think about this film.

• Sophie B

  
  At the beginning it seemed quite confusing but once it really got started it was obvious what was happening but the route the narrative would take kept twisting and turning making it difficult to guess what would happen next. Some parts were fairly predictable (when he stepped out of… More
  At the beginning it seemed quite confusing but once it really got started it was obvious what was happening but the route the narrative would take kept twisting and turning making it difficult to guess what would happen next. Some parts were fairly predictable (when he stepped out of the set at the end) however I loved the story and it brings up a lot of ethical issues surrounding an experiment such as this. It's a really interesting subject which kept me entertained and gripped throughout.

• Daniel M

  
  The Truman Show is a truly brilliant film, and a huge turning point in the careers of its key players. It introduced a more mature and meaningful side of Jim Carrey, allowing him to get beyond rubber-faced comedy and find a new, more serious audience. It consolidated Peter Weir's… More
  The Truman Show is a truly brilliant film, and a huge turning point in the careers of its key players. It introduced a more mature and meaningful side of Jim Carrey, allowing him to get beyond rubber-faced comedy and find a new, more serious audience. It consolidated Peter Weir's status as a great director, which ultimately led to a Best Picture nomination for Master and Commander. And it launched the career of Natascha McElhone, a very underrated actress who would later star opposite George Clooney in the remake of Solaris. Many people have written about how the film was ahead of its time in predicting the influence and extent of reality television on our culture. But what's even more interesting is the way in which this vision or prophecy is presented. There have been a long history of films which have either looked at individuals being manipulated for the sake of entertainment (Network) or have revealed dark secrets hiding beneath the visage of perfect American suburbia (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, The Stepford Wives and much of David Lynch). What connects these diverse and interesting films is their ultimately cynical nature, which is present not just in their subject matter but in their look and their resolution. What is so different about The Truman Show is that it manages to handle these subjects very well indeed while still being warm and inviting. We find the characters charming and engaging rather than creepy and eerie. We invest in the distant relationship between Jim Carrey and Natascha McElhone because they are genuinely likeable and believable characters, and they make the film more accessible than it otherwise would have been. In Blue Velvet, you understand very early on that everyone on screen is guilty; your attachment and empathy comes partly from the moral growth of Kyle McLaughlan and partly from the hypnotic style of shooting. In this, the empathy comes from a far more simple yet equally valid desire to see an optimistic outcome in this oddly threatening world. That's not to say that the film isn't afraid to be savage. Throughout this charming looking film we find occasional and biting references to the 'progress' of our society. Weir deliberately lit the interior scenes very brightly, so that every shot of Truman or his wife looked like an advertisement. It's so effective that when the obviously fake product placement pops up in conversation, it's more of a surreal tangent than the jarring cop-out we have come to expect. The few shots we see of the public watching the show portray them as people with little life outside of watching others. The final line of the film, "What else is on?", is a barbed attack on our increasingly short attention spans, and plays with the idea that the emotional involvement we have with characters like Truman is ultimately manufactured. We don't really care about the people on screen, we just respond to certain shots and music cues in a way which is pre-programmed, either by genetics or by social conventions. It's almost as though Weir is playing Kubrick in that final scene, using the film as a mirror into which we look and see our increasingly sinister reflections. All of this moralising is made more powerful by the fact that Weir allows for ambiguity. In presenting to us the dangers of a society based around reality T.V, he acknowledges the potential benefits that it may bring. Ed Harris' character is the mouthpiece for this, arguing that Truman's life is an inspiration to millions; the power of television to reach large audiences makes him a perverse kind of role model, and in return he need not fear anything, at least in theory. The irate conversation which Christof has with McElhone's character makes him seem more sympathetic, if not moral, so that you understand why he created the show even if you don't agree with it. The screenplay doesn't force any of its moral points down the audience's throats, instead allowing them to accept as much of it as they wish. The appeal of the film is underscored by a series of remarkable performances. Most of these had to be natural enough so that Truman was convinced that everything was normal, but at the same time forced enough to make them stand out from the 'public' and remind us that it's a show. In fact the best moments in the film are where this divide becomes almost indiscernible -- we get sucked into the action, becoming more than just observers or voyeurs. So many comedians have reverted to serious roles late in their career as a final admission that they are no longer funny -- a comment which was wrongly made about Peter Sellers in Being There. Jim Carrey knew this and took a pay cut to do this film, to prove to himself and the world that he could do drama. He has a childlike frailty to his performance reminiscent of Tom Hanks in Road to Perdition, and he manages to reign himself in when the film requires him to become more off-beat and wacky. Laura Linney is a great match for him as Meryl, portraying her as the forced, perfect woman from The Stepford Wives with perfect teeth and solid family values. She may have less to work with, but her strained and serious attitude towards both her life and her acting career really lifts the more subtle comedic moments. Natascha McElhone is brilliant, delivering a performance in which she does so little and yet says so much. She's only on screen for a few scenes, but like Claire Danes she has genuine presence so that we cannot help but invest in her character. And Ed Harris is fantastic as Christof, allowing the lines to speak for themselves and handling himself with the same quiet grace that he has in both Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind. The Truman Show is a well-written, well-acted and well-disciplined film which takes complex, relevant subject matter and relays it to the audience without either alienating or patronising. Every single scene serves a purpose and the film is the perfect length. Rather than spending a lot of time setting up the world, we get a brief glimpse of it before the story literally falls into our sights in the first five minutes. It has the pace and discipline which perhaps Master and Commander lacked, coupled with a visual sensibility which is arresting and endearing. Weir is a great period director, drawing on both the look and themes of Dead Poets' Society to craft what could be his masterpiece. One of the best films of the 1990s and a real must-see.

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