The Extra Man

In the movie The Extra Man from 2010, Kevin Kline stars as Henry Harrison, a failed playwright who makes a living as an "extra man" accompanying wealthy, older women to social events. Paul Dano co-stars as Louis Ives, a young aspiring writer who is fired from his job at an Ivy League university after he's caught wearing women's clothing. In need of a fresh start, Louis moves to New York City to start a new life as a writer and begins rooming with Henry.

The two men couldn't be more different. Henry is eccentric and narcissistic, with a penchant for outrageous fashion and an insatiable appetite for finer things. Louis is quiet and introverted, struggling to find his place in the world. Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely friendship, with Henry taking Louis under his wing and teaching him about the art of being an extra man.

As Louis starts to navigate the New York literary scene, he becomes enamored with Mary Powell (played by Katie Holmes), a beautiful, wealthy woman with ties to the social elite. With Henry's encouragement, Louis sets his sights on Mary, hoping to use her connections to launch his writing career. Along the way, Louis finds himself drawn deeper into Henry's world of secrets and lies, questioning whether his mentor is really the friend he purports to be.

Throughout the film, Henry's character is explored in depth. He is portrayed as a complex and troubled individual, with a tragic backstory that has left him feeling disillusioned and bitter about life. Despite his flaws, however, Henry is an undeniably fascinating character, full of wit and charm. Kevin Kline's performance as Henry is nothing short of masterful, bringing the character to life with an intoxicating mix of charisma and pathos.

Paul Dano also shines in his portrayal of Louis, conveying his character's vulnerability and ambition with effortless skill. Katie Holmes is somewhat underutilized as Mary, but still manages to imbue the character with a sense of grace and poise that perfectly matches her aristocratic background.

Ultimately, The Extra Man is a film about the search for meaning and connection in a world that often seems indifferent or hostile. It's a beautifully shot and brilliantly acted movie that explores complex themes of identity, class, and ambition with a deft touch. While some viewers may find the pacing slow, patient viewers will be rewarded with a rich and satisfying story that lingers long after the credits roll.