The Rum Diary

Rating: 4/5

Hunter S. Thompson and his writings have had a large influence on me. Gonzo journalism is one of the most effective styles of writing, and I use it all the time. You know how I try to write from the point of view of a common moviegoer? Notice how I use a lot of sarcasm? Straight ripped off from the Doc. And as a big fan, I recognize that no one plays Thompson better than Johnny Depp. Need proof and/or an intro to the man's work? Look no further than The Rum Diary.

Paul Kemp (Johnny Depp) is a young and talented journalist who has come to Puerto Rico to work at a failing newspaper called the San Juan Star. His only friend is Bob (Michael Rispoli), a pessimistic photographer who likes the finer things in life like rum and even more rum. Kemp is on his way to the same mindset when he is recruited by corrupt millionaire Sanderson (Aaron Eckhart) to write promos for his upcoming land-grab scam. Once Kemp is pulled into Sanderson's world, which includes Chenault (the beautiful Amber Heard), he starts to see what's up, and his debaucherous journey begins.

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT go into The Rum Diary expecting Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas. That film, while a complete masterpiece, is based on a novel of Thompson's written after he was established as a revolutionary journalist. The Rum Diary was written when Thompson was in his early twenties, and it's mostly about the experiences that shaped him into Raoul Duke. There's not a lot of narration, psychotropics, or great quotes, but it's very well done and maintains the spirit of the Doc's work.

Johnny Depp is as usual perfect in the main role, not that I'm surprised. But I have to admit I've gotten annoyed at JD for doing this routine in every movie. When it's in the right place though, Depp is incomparable and irreplaceable. Actually the whole cast is great, including Amber Heard, which was a surprise. The pace is a bit slow at times, and it's too long, but I was never bored. The dialog is very funny, the scenery is beautiful, and as a result it comes together well. One of the best parts is the soundtrack, always keeping the mood with an eclectic mix of rock, soul, and traditional Puerto Rican music.

Dr. Thompson always said how he wanted to make this movie, and it's sad it didn't happen before his death in 2005. I'm sure he'd bless it though. The Rum Diary is a solid entry in the HST filmography (considering there are only three) and a good place to start if you want an intro to the Doc's work. It isn't Fear & Loathing or Where the Buffalo Roam, and some people won't like it. So think of this as Hunter S. Thompson's superhero origin story. And if you're a fan like me, you have an obligation to go. Don't let the bastards win.