Henry Chinaski, the alter ego of writer Charles Bukowski, first portrayed by Mickey Rourke in the aforementioned Barfly, returns to the screen in Factotum. The film, an adaptation of the soused scribblers novel of the same name, follows Chinaski (Matt Dillon) as he works his way through a series of short-lived jobs and female companions. Punching a time clock and emotional attachments both represent obstacles in the way of Chinaskis two true loves - booze and writing - so they are things with which he must eventually dispose. Those who have seen Barfly will notice differences and similarities. Both films provide a perspective of life as filtered through booze, with a main character whose alcoholism and art are inextricably entwined. However, the earlier film was dark and depressing; director Bent Hamer finds quite an amount humor in many of Factotums situations. The film is at its best when it taps into the allure of sluggishness: the almost scandalous feeling of freedom that comes from sitting on a barstool in midafternoon, without a job, a schedule or responsibilities.
Jesse Gumbarge is editor and chief blogger at JarvisCity.com - He loves old-school horror films and starting pointless debates. You can reach out at: JesseGumbarge@JarvisCity.com
