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New Release Birb: Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool

Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool
Starring: Annette Benning and Jamie Bell
Directed By: Paul McGuigan
US Release Date: December 15th, 2017
My First Viewing: January 26th, 2018
Image Credit

 Annette Benning (20th Century Women, American Beauty) and Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot) star in the romantic drama Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool, which follows Benning's portrayal of actress Gloria Grahame in the last few years of her life. 

 Based on the memoir by Peter Turner (who Bell portrays in the film), the story follows Turner and Grahame's relationship in a non-linear style. Jumping between the past and the present, we see the highs and lows of the relationship, the underlying stories, and what one will do to not hurt the ones they love. Benning's version of Grahame is near spot-on, down to the soft pouty voice, movements, and lip curls. Bell and Benning have great chemistry together, but the story overall for some reason felt safe and a little by-the-numbers. 

 Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool is rated R for language and sexual content. Have you seen the film? Please post your comments below and as always, be civil. 
-birb 

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