The Amazing Howard Hughes

Synopsis

The Amazing Howard Hughes is a 1977 biographical drama directed by William A. Graham, featuring Tommy Lee Jones in the titular role. The film chronicles the fascinating life of the eccentric billionaire, aviation pioneer, and film producer Howard Hughes. It delves into his innovative achievements in aviation, his ambitious ventures in Hollywood, and the personal struggles that accompanied his remarkable journey. Offering a nuanced portrait, the movie explores Hughes’ relentless quest for perfection and the complexities that defined his character, ultimately revealing how his visionary spirit both inspired and isolated him in a rapidly changing world.

Cast

• 

  Tommy Lee Jones

  Howard Hughes

• 

  Ed Flanders

  Noah Dietrich

• 

  James Hampton

  Wilbur Peterson

• 

  Tovah Feldshuh

  Katharine Hepburn

• 

  Lee Purcell

  Billie Dove

• 

  Jim Antonio

  George

Reviews

The Amazing Howard Hughes received mixed to moderately positive reviews upon its release and continues to hold a varied reputation among audiences and critics. On IMDb, the film maintains a rating of 6.6/10, indicating generally favorable viewer responses. Critics appreciated Tommy Lee Jones’ portrayal of Hughes, noting his ability to capture the enigmatic and intense nature of the mogul. However, some reviewers felt the pacing of the film was uneven, occasionally detracting from the overall impact. For instance, some critics pointed out that the narrative sometimes favored biographical detail over dramatic engagement, which might not appeal to all viewers. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a critic score for this title due to its age and limited modern reviews, yet audience reactions often commend the historical significance and intense performances despite cinematic limitations. Metacritic lacks an aggregate score, but individual reviews from the period praise the film's ambition and focus on character rather than spectacle. Overall, it is regarded as a respectable portrayal that balances the complexity of its subject but may not fully captivate viewers seeking a more dynamic or fast-paced biopic.