Mona Lisa

Ex-con chauffeur falls for high-class escort

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About Mona Lisa

Released: 1986

Platform: Max

Rating: R

Run time:

Cast
Bob Hoskins, Cathy Tyson, Michael Caine, Roger Pratt

Mona Lisa (1986)

About Mona Lisa

The 1986 film 'Mona Lisa' is a British crime drama woven around themes of love and loyalty. Directed by Neil Jordan, the story chronicles the life of George, a recently freed convict, tasked with chauffeuring a high-class prostitute, Simone. As the plot unfolds, George falls hard for Simone, eventually becoming embroiled in a dark underworld of crime and corruption in an earnest attempt to rescue Simone from her circumstances. The compelling narrative offers a grim and gritty depiction of London's seedy underbelly.

Making / Production

'Mona Lisa' was directed by Neil Jordan, who co-wrote the script with David Leland. The movie was produced by Stephen Woolley, Patrick Cassavetti, and Nik Powell and was filmed on location in London.

Actors

  • Bob Hoskins - He played the character of George with finesse and depth. His performance was hailed for its raw authenticity and emotional range.
  • Cathy Tyson - As Simone, Tyson portrayed the complex world of a high-class escort with nuance and sensitivity.
  • Michael Caine - His portrayal of Denny Mortwell, a ruthless mob boss, added a powerful antagonist presence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • 'Mona Lisa' marked Neil Jordan's breakthrough into mainstream cinema.
  • Bob Hoskins claimed that the role of George was his personal favorite throughout his career.
  • The film is also noteworthy for its atmospheric depiction of 1980s London.

Awards

The film was highly acclaimed and bagged several prestigious awards. Bob Hoskins won the Best Actor award at Cannes Film Festival, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film also won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.

Quotes

  • "I'm not your driver. I'm your friend." - George
  • "We hurt each other too much." - Simone
  • "You were never any good as a thief. You got too many morals." - Denny Mortwell

Music, Soundtrack

  • The film's score was composed by Michael Kamen, who perfectly captured the grim and emotional reality of the narrative.
  • The title song, 'Mona Lisa,' originally a 1950 U.S. hit for Nat King Cole, played a pivotal part in the film.