Is Babylon Just A Three Hour Raunchy Marathon?

Set during the Roaring 20’s, Babylon follows several key figures through Hollywood’s transition from silent films to “the talkies.” The rise and fall of an acting veteran, a cabaret dancer, an aspiring star, a director, a gossip columnist and a world class musician are all tracked throughout this three-hour glimpse into old Hollywood.

Margot Robbie, Brad Pitt and Diego Calva deliver outstanding performances but it's just not enough. Plain and simple, I didn’t root for anybody. I didn’t care if any of the characters succeeded or failed. I can forgive a project that’s long if it’s compelling. I can offer some grace if I’m invested in its characters or the story. I can even salvage some respect if I at least cared how it was going to end.

I didn’t do any of those things.

Babylon is a bloated, conceited and convoluted mess that did a disservice to otherwise incredible actors. It wasn’t even fun. It was 189 minutes of waiting for the finish line and then not enjoying said finish line.

JKG SCORE: 4.5

The Untitled Film Project Podcast talked about Babylon and welcome you into their discussion. Listen below.