Inspired by one of the most notoriously bad movies in movie history, “The Disaster Artist” takes one man’s twisted vision and turns it into a deeper understanding of the man himself. With a sense of respect as well as humor, this film pays homage to a cult classic; emphasizing the ideas of friendship and pursuing your dreams.

“The Room,” which this movie tells the making of, is widely panned as a downright rotten film. However, because of its steady stream of negative attributes, to many this film has become what they think of as “so bad, it’s good.” Written, directed, produced, and starring the infamous man of mystery, Tommy Wiseau, there is really nothing positive a movie critic could note in this passion project. From the writing, to direction, to production and acting, audiences will sooner cry from laughter than from any other emotion the film attempts to evoke. 

What makes this so interesting is the idea that such a man, whose background remains one big question mark, could make such a movie. And on top of that, have the support of someone such as his acting partner Greg Sestero. What must the crew have thought, and what was Wiseau really like? That is what “The Disaster Artist” ultimately dares to expose.

Based on the novel with the same title, “The Disaster Artist” tells the story of Wiseau and Greg Sestero as they make the failed movie known as “The Room.” Though the plot encompasses the making of “The Room,” there is much more to it. Focusing on characters Wiseau and Sestero, this film digs deeper to humanize otherwise one-note actors, highlighting their loyalty to each other and their dreams. Though audiences may never truly know the enigma that is Tommy Wiseau, they will know the honesty of his vision and the obstacles he faced in pursuing it. While giving Wiseau and Sestero their due respect for fighting for what they believed in, the film does not ignore the innate comedy that will always underlie the source material, making it a good balance of the creators’ vision with the reality and poor quality that audiences have come to know and love.

The stars of this film, who knew just how to portray this mix of sentiment and absurdity between friends, are none other than the Franco brothers. James and Dave Franco, who played Wiseau and Sestero respectively, appeared on-screen together for the first time, and to the audience’s advantage. The chemistry between the two were electric and both flawlessly captured their characters’ identities. 

James Franco especially executed Wiseau’s persona with precision. For those who have seen “The Room” Wiseau is unmistakable and unforgettable. To see someone equally as recognizable in full wig, prosthetics, and accent was off-putting at first. But after the movie progressed, the illusion was in full affect and the talented actor became transformed.

Made mainly for those who have seen and appreciated the train wreck that is “The Room,” this movie gives viewers a whole new point of view that adds to the experience of watching the original. James Franco brings his art form to the next level, leaving a sense of fitting irony as he replicates one of the weakest examples of filmmaking with one of his strongest.