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BEYOND THE SEA

By Copley News Media

michael_summers@fortwaynereader.com

Fort Wayne Reader

2005-01-24

One of the most genuine tributes ever offered by one artist to another, Kevin Spacey's "Beyond the Sea" tops the retro fever that has revived Bobby Darin. Spacey, the actor whose love of Darin's music began with his boyhood LPs and his late mother Kathleen's enthusiasm for the singer, stars as Darin. He does a remarkable job singing like him (close enough for a good cigar), and also directed, produced and largely wrote a movie that despite "bio pic" touches is sincere, hip and very entertaining. The film tells how Walden Robert Cassotto became hit-maker Bobby Darin, tried to become folk singer Bob Darin, then returned to the clubs and casinos that were his true home before dying of congenital heart illness. The film is also a work of devotion and guts. Though pushed along quickly on a trim budget, this is a stunning salute.

A Lion's Gate Films release. Director: Kevin Spacey. Writers: Kevin Spacey, Lewis Colick. Cast: Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth, Bob Hoskins, John Goodman, Caroline Aaron, Brenda Blethyn and William Ullrich. Running time: 1 hr., 58 min. Rated PG-13.