Blow (Ted Demme, 2001)

This is a great, multifaceted and engaging story about an intriguing figure in the drug world: George Jung, responsible for establishing the cocaine market in the USA during the 1970s. The film Blow challenges some of the stereotypes in what is quite an amazing, very human portrait of a drug dealer – you know you have a well-written character, when you find yourself sympathising with a drug trafficker!

 Blow is a quick moving film, which manages to already start pulling at the heartstrings half an hour into the film. It features crime, drama, romance, as well as lighter moments, which make it a well-rounded, entertaining and appealing film. If centres on the life of George Jung (played by the versatile Johnny Depp), an entrepreneurial young man who finds a career in the drug market. Unlike the usual films in this genre, Jung is shown to be a complex character – while audiences may disapprove of his shady activities, you find yourself really growing fond of the man who turns out to be a loving family-oriented guy. Like most people in his profession, the drive for money is what leads Jung into the business but it’s a different kind of love that fuels him for the rest of his life – the sensitive and emotional spot he has for his daughter.

The film is bookended by a scene around a table (after it opens the movie, the plot flashes back to his earlier life, only to return to the scene at the end of the film, this time with the audience having the context to be able to revisit the scene). And what a scene it is – Jung’s realisation of his situation and what is about to happen just freezes the moment in time. That glimpse, that realisation, is just incredibly affecting and wonderfully captured by Depp, who seems to have a skill of choosing film roles based on intriguing individuals. Blow seems to get sadder as it progresses and the final scenes are so poignant and raw. It is as if the film is split into two acts – the fun-loving, fast-living first part and the deeply emotional and darker, more honest second act.

In addition to the skilful portrayal from Depp, the film presents a strong supporting cast. Penelope Cruz plays Jung’s feisty, strong female – a far cry from the typically passive wives present in crime genres. There is also Paul Reubens and Franka Potente, who ideally suits the role of Barbara, or “Barbie” as she is affectionately called.

While George Jung is a relatively well-known criminal, I think the premise of this film based on his life doesn’t really represent the complex nature of this story. It is very much based around the illegal activity of Jung but there is also so much more provided in this film. It’s not about right or wrong but really explores the shades of grey. Blow is not just about another drug trafficker but really about a human being.

4.5/5