Howl [Film Review]

Another old and rather short review for the film adaptation of Howl. 

James Franco as beat writer Allan Ginsberg in Howl.

So I finally got round to watching Howl. I always knew I was going to like it, due to its examination of the beat generation and its bohemian hedonists; the inclusion of two of my favourite present-day actors: James Franco and Jon Hamm; and of course the fact that the title and story refer to Allan Ginsberg's famous beat poem, which alone could form the basis of an invigorating short film.


The feature, however, chooses to also focus on the obscenity trial that Ginsberg's poem spawned. Jon Hamm gives an authentic feel to his role as a defence attorney attempting to prevent publisher Lawrence Ferlinghetti's prosecution for publishing Howl out of his San Francisco book store. The film juxtaposes the literary experts who speak at the case with lines from Howl, encouraging us to laugh at those who criticise and warm to those who compliment.


The film features a reconstruction of the now famous gallery 6 reading of the poem, in which Franco mirrors perfectly Ginsberg's excited drawl. The audience includes Kerouac and Neal Cassady, who are also featured in reconstructions of Ginsberg's life. An interview with the writer at his home is also reconstructed, with Franco sat smoking and laughing, capturing perfectly the warmth and enigma of Ginsberg's character.

Aaron Tveit and Franco as Peter Orlovsky and Ginsberg.

My favourite part of the film has to be the reading of Howl, whose acts are demonstrated in animation. It displays the spontaneous creativity at the heart of Howl, and takes us away from the words oozing from Franco's mouth and into the crazy, angry and lonely thoughts of Ginsberg.


A film definitely recommended for those with an interest in beat literature, as the inclusion of Ginsberg's famous peers in the film, like Kerouac and Cassady is more than enough to ignite a sense of beat nostalgia. Without such interests the film could drag for some, but the charisma and warmth that Franco brings to the role is definitely worth a watch.