Clooney channels himself to provide a career highlight

By playing an ageing film star in 'Jay Kelly', George Clooney delivers one of his best performances, says Geoffrey Macnab

- Geoffrey Macnab

Against the odds, and playing someone clearly partly based on himself, ageing Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney gives one of his finest performances in Noah Baumbach's wistful new comedy-drama Jay Kelly (a world premiere in competition at the

Venice Film Festival). President Trump may have recently mocked the socially and politically progressive actor as a “second-rate movie ‘star’”, but it will be no surprise at all if Clooney receives major awards recognition for his work here.

Jay, Clooney’s character, is a pampered, narcissistic movie legend. He’s personable and charming, but so devoted to his career that he doesn’t notice the emotional wreckage he leaves in his wake. Whenever there are problems in his life - of both the domestic and professional varieties — he’ll rely on his long-suffering manager Ron (Adam Sandler) or his sardonic publicist Liz (Laura Dern) to clear up the mess. People call him an “empty vessel” and ask: “Is there a person in there?”