When we think of Steve Jobs, likely the first thing we recall is him being the revered Co-Founder and CEO of the Apple Inc. Empire – a beloved Visionary. David Fincher’s The Social Network in 2010 really raised the bar high in terms of Technology-related Biopics and it is undeniable there is a bit of an overlap thematically in this effort from Director Joshua Michael Stern. jOBS recalls the dramas, underhanded dealings, tantrums and politics behind his ascension as one of the most fascinating people of our time. Those of us who aren’t familiar with his Story will learn that achieving the recognition he deserved rightfully was by no means an easy feat. That being said, there are missed opportunities in terms of character development amidst all the struggle and process here and through it all, we cannot help but feel we are missing the true spirit and essence of what it is that drove Jobs in his endless pursuit of success and perfection.
Front and center here in what seemed initially like a surprising casting choice, is Ashton Kutcher who stretches his wings fully, portraying Jobs over the span of 40-plus years, each era feeling and looking authentic. Perhaps the most shocking revelation of all here is that he was somewhat deplorable actually before embracing humility after his world crumbled with his initial exit from the Company he created. Beneath everything is a magnetic motivation, relentless passion and what would amount to the Story of a born Leader. Despite his striking physical transformation, Kutcher struggles early to gain momentum, but this is not to say he doesn’t shine as he particularly is commanding in moments where he asserts his authority unapologetically over his Subordinates. In the later stages of the Film, he transforms into battle-weathered Jobs with complete believability, truly growing into his own.
Although known mostly for being comedic, Josh Gad does respectably as Apple Inc. Co-Founder Steve Wozniak, embodying what it means to be both technologically-gifted and indispensable, even if his role is diminished somewhat late in the Film to someone who has to be scheduled into Jobs’ itinerary. Dermot Mulroney is great as Angel Investor Mike Markkula, an integral component to this Story of success, demise and ultimately, victory.
Remstar Films releases on Friday, August 16, 2013.
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