I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I especially loved the music. Each piece was taken from one film or another as an homage to its predecessors. I was touched when I heard Bernard Herrmann's "Scene d'Amour," and then moved to tears by the end of it. I can't remember the last time a movie has EVER made me cry. Some have come close, but never full-on tears.
No, it isn't terribly original. Cookie cutter plot with recycled music, but it was a good movie. The character of George Valentino reminded me of a Greek tragedy.
"I've been stupid, and proud." He says, a shadow of his former self. He's so pathetic at this point of the film his own shadow literally can't stand him anymore. Yeah, George was a douche, and he all of the problems he had were his own fault. But that's what draws you in: to see what he does next. And he does show glimmers of being a nice guy, and even comes across as an underdog at times.
Bob was right, a proper twist would've been a stalker-ish type reveal, and a truly tragic ending. Like Bela Lugosi after him, it would've made a real impact to see George's life end in misery...
But I liked the ending. Yes, it's predictable. As predictable as apple pie tasting sweet, but you love apple pie because it tastes sweet.
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Also, the reason why Peppy loves George seemed simple to me, but I shan't reveal any spoilers.