“All The Money In The World” is a gripping and intense drama based on the true story of the 1973 kidnapping of John Paul Getty III, the grandson of the wealthiest man in the world at the time, J. Paul Getty. Directed by Ridley Scott and released in 2017, the film stars Christopher Plummer, Michelle Williams, and Mark Wahlberg.
The film follows the harrowing ordeal of John Paul Getty III’s kidnapping, and the frantic efforts of his mother, Gail Harris (Michelle Williams), to secure his release. However, she faces an unexpected obstacle in the form of her former father-in-law, J. Paul Getty (Christopher Plummer), who refuses to pay the ransom and seems more concerned with his wealth and reputation than his own grandson’s safety.
The standout performance in the film is undoubtedly Christopher Plummer’s portrayal of J. Paul Getty. Plummer stepped in to replace Kevin Spacey, who was originally cast in the role, and delivers a powerful and nuanced performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Michelle Williams also delivers a strong performance as Gail Harris, portraying a mother’s desperation and determination to save her son.
The film’s direction by Ridley Scott is masterful, with tense and suspenseful scenes that keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The cinematography and production design are also noteworthy, transporting the viewer to the opulent world of the Getty family and the dark underworld of the kidnappers.
“All The Money In The World” is a compelling and well-crafted film that tells a riveting story of greed, power, and family. The dark humour arises from John Paul Getty’s obsession with his fortune, making him a target of criticism. Despite the astronomical ransom demanded for his grandson’s release, Getty haggles and tries to negotiate a lower price, showcasing his extreme miserliness. This behaviour goes beyond a simple explanation of wealth, suggesting deeper emotional and mental issues. Gail’s restraint and Williams’ performance capture her frustration while navigating Getty’s callousness.
The film provides a throwback to the 1970s, featuring recognisable human beings dealing with tense situations based on true events. Ridley Scott skilfully balances realism and Hollywood fantasy, creating a film that feels genuine. The film acknowledges that liberties were taken with the historical record, particularly in placing Gail and Fletcher Chase, Getty’s business manager, in dangerous situations. This approach adds a layer of intensity to the narrative.
“All The Money In The World” stands as a testament to Ridley Scott’s work ethic, as he replaced Kevin Spacey with Christopher Plummer after Spacey’s misconduct allegations. Plummer’s exceptional performance as J. Paul Getty transcends the film, depicting a character emblematic of an era where money seems to hold more value than mercy.
“All The Money In The World” is a must-see film that combines a compelling true crime narrative with outstanding performances, masterful direction, and captivating production design. It explores themes of greed, power, and family dynamics while shedding light on the dark side of immense wealth.
Reviewed by Pat Harrington
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