Howl

"I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by madness, starving hysterical naked"

Excitiiiiiiiiiiing times. Next year sees the film release of Howl, the story of Allen Ginsberg and the obscenity trials which followed the release of Howl, his epic poem which contributed significantly the Beat movement in 1950's America. The devilishly handsome James Franco seems an unlikely choice to portray the balding, bespectacled writer yet it is clear from these early shots that the film is attempting an authenticity that without which would be a dramatic failure. His performance in Milk sealed his credibility with a sophisticated style that seems fitting for Ginsberg and will amount to his second gay role.

Howl is such a seminal piece of writing and it seems fittingly controversial to explore its meaning and its reception at a time which was not ready for such brutal honesty. With a cast consisting of Jeff Daniels, Mary-Louise Parker and Jon Hamm its potential continues yet this also adds to the pressure of the films validity, as if it is seen as a disappointment, the cruel opinions of many dedicated fans will be let loose.

It is the right time for us to be reminded about such genius and creativity. Ginsberg gave us a vivid glimpse into the reality of bohemian living and even 50 years on, its relevance has not wavered. With Gus Van Sant acting as executive producer and keeping an eye out on proceedings, the film looks set to do justice to such an American icon and a much loved influence.