Leonardo DiCaprio stars as J. Edgar Hoover in Clint Eastwood’s highly anticipated biopic of the man who led the FBI and would rise to be the most powerful man in America.
As head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for nearly 50 years, Hoover would stop at nothing to protect his country. Through eight presidents and three wars, Hoover waged battle against threats both real and perceived, often bending the rules to keep America safe. He was a man who placed great value on secrets–particularly those of others–and was not afraid to use that information to exert authority over the leading figures in the nation. Understanding that knowledge is power and fear poses opportunity, he used both to gain unprecedented influence and to build a reputation that was both formidable and untouchable.
Not surprisingly, he was as guarded in his private life as he was in his public one, allowing only a small and protective inner circle into his confidence. His closest colleague, Clyde Tolson, was also his constant companion. His secretary, Helen Gandy, who was perhaps most privy to Hoover’s designs, remained loyal to the end… and beyond. Only Hoover’s mother, who served as his inspiration and his conscience, would leave him, her passing truly crushing to the son who forever sought her love and approval.
DiCaprio is a roaring wonder as J. Edgar Hoover. ROLLING STONE
As a period biopic, “J. Edgar” is masterful. CHICAGO SUN TIMES
