'Me and Orson Welles' review

Zac Efron and Christian McKay (Credit: Liam Daniel/CinemaNX)

It's 1937 and young director Orson Welles (Christian McKay, excellent) is opening New York's Mercury Theater with a take on Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar." Aspiring actor Richard (Zac Efron) lands a part in the disorganized show—which is frequently delayed by Welles' tardiness and massive ego—but doesn't sweat it too much after hitting it off with a fetching production assistant (Claire Danes).

The buzz: Based around the actual adaptation by Welles (who, of course, went on to become a legendary filmmaker), "Me and Orson Welles" comes from the novel by Robert Kaplow. The film is a return to lighthearted fare for director Richard Linklater ("A Scanner Darkly") and a chance to see if Efron can keep up in a more mature film than "High School Musical," "17 Again" or "Hairspray."

The verdict: Efron comes off as too bland to provide his usual spark. This minor but pleasant comedy, though, captures behind-the-scenes mayhem as the result of having a brilliant windbag at the helm, causing both chaos and inspiration with all his hot air. The movie's as much about the relationship between director and cast as it is about the ever-present BS of the theater. Linklater's clever gag is realizing that in the moment just before or after a performance, hearing a little ego-boosting BS is perfectly welcome.

Did you know? To audition for Welles, Richard sings the jingle for Wheaties. Consider what modern ad—Empire Carpet?—you'd pick for your big break.

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