One of Clint Eastwood’s slightly more underrated pictures has captured the attention of fans on Rotten Tomatoes. Richard Jewell, released in 2019, has been rated at an impressive 96% by fans who have labelled it as “surprisingly amazing.” Eastwood’s film tells the story of the Centennial Olympic Park bombing on July 27, 1996, and the events that occurred in its aftermath.
The film’s synopsis reads: “During the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, security guard Richard Jewell discovers a suspicious backpack under a bench in Centennial Park. With little time to spare, he helps to evacuate the area until the incendiary device inside the bag explodes. Hailed as a hero who saved lives, Jewell’s own life starts to unravel when the FBI names him the prime suspect in the bombing.”
With direction from Eastwood, the film’s stellar cast includes Sam Rockwell, Kathy Bates, Jon Hamm, Olivia Wilde and Paul Walter Hauser.
The fans of Rotten Tomatoes have hailed the film with one person describing the film as “surprisingly amazing”, with their review stating: “This movie was surprisingly amazing. It was well acted, touching, the works. Screw the media being upset over one very brief scene (not like it doesn’t happen anyways). Get all your friends and family to see it and support Clint Eastwood.”
An audience reviewer said: “Paul Walter Hauser was amazing as always! The cast was incredible. Great, great movie!”
“Really touching… Great performances. Three main characters deserved the Oscar! Kathy Bates was so moving,” another added.
However, the critics don’t rate the film quite as highly, awarding the film with a 77% score. Their consensus states: “Richard Jewell simplifies the real-life events that inspired it – yet still proves that Clint Eastwood remains a skilled filmmaker of admirable economy.”
One critic wrote in their review: “Where it falters – and badly – is in its portrayal of real-life reporter Kathy Scruggs. It leaves a bitter taste and mars the whole package, undermining its own good work elsewhere.”
With another adding: “The story Eastwood is telling here is indeed a compelling one, a real-life drama recounting the abuse of power by the two most powerful institutions in America, the government and the press.”
Richard Jewell is available to purchase for viewing on Amazon Prime and YouTube.