Best

Best is a dramatically rich and enveloping biographical film released in 2000. The film narrative is built around the life and times of George Best, a legendary football player from Northern Ireland, often regarded as one of the greatest dribblers in the history of the game. This character-driven biopic features an intriguing exploration of Best’s journey, offering a glimpse into his world of fame, struggle, and his descent into alcoholism. Directed by Mary McGuckian, Best showcases convincing performances by the cast, along with a captivating plot build-up that gradually reveals intricate aspects of Best's life.

John Lynch, known for his intensity and superior control over emotive performances, delivers a stirring portrayal of George Best. The film begins in his early days, featuring Best's talent discovery by Manchester United football club’s scout. It continues through, tracing his rapid rise to fame, leading his club to the 1968 European Cup victory, becoming the sport's first superstar 'celebrity' with tabloid fame beyond the football pitch. However, the movie doesn’t shy away from depicting Best’s turbulent life off the field, which attracted as many headlines as his footballing prowess.

Together with Lynch's portrayal of Best, Ian Bannen delivers a commendable performance as Sir Matt Busby, the adored manager of Manchester United, who played a pivotal role in Best’s career. The master-student duo's dynamics is effectively portrayed by Lynch and Bannen, underlining the love, respect, and tension that mired their relationship.

Jerome Flynn plays the role of Bobby Charlton, a crucial character in this storyline. As one of Best's teammates, his portrayal sheds light on how the team members navigated the highs and lows that came with having Best on their team.

The director, Mary McGuckian, skilfully balances depicting the exhilarating rise of Best’s stardom and his tragic descent into alcoholism. The film does not limit itself to Best’s personal or professional life but employs a multifaceted approach, gamely exploring the global phenomenon of celebrity culture for sports personalities.

The on-field sequences in the movie are filmed with a keen eye for detail, capturing the energy, excitement, and intensity of a live match situation. Historic moments are recreated authentically, and the camera’s love for the player's feet does justice in depicting George's exceptional ball dribbling skills.

Off the field, Best's personal journey is painted with all its highs and lows. His relationships, friendships, and trouble with alcohol are depicted sensitively, maintaining a humanistic approach. Simultaneously, we witness the complex relationship between Best and Sir Matt Busby and how the toxicity of fame ultimately leads Best down a destructive path.

The film narrative also emphasizes the voyeuristic nature of the media and the public, particularly with celebrities in the limelight, where their personal lives often turn into a public circus. It thoughtfully explores how the opulence and hedonism often associated with stardom can be a double-edged sword leading to a spiralling downfall.

Cinematically, Best presents an authentic 60s period design, aided by sumptuous set decoration, costume design, and a carefully selected soundtrack that captures the era's essence. The film’s pacing is appropriately measured, and the storytelling is skilfully woven with moments of tension, triumph, despair, and redemption. The lucid screenplay and competent direction make this introspective character study an effectively engaging movie experience.

In conclusion, Best is a thought-provoking and emotionally honest portrayal of George Best’s life. A lifelong football fan or someone interested in the dynamics of fame will find it compelling. John Lynch’s remarkable performance offers an incredibly nuanced portrayal of a man who lived through extremes of fame and despair. Together with the whole cast and crew’s effort, the movie successfully transports the audience back in time to relive the experiences of a man who was, undoubtedly, one of the best in the business.