Ian McKellen Revisits Dark Era in The Critic

In the new film The Critic, Ian McKellen takes on the complex role of Jimmy Erskine, a theater critic in 1934 London. Directed by Anand Tucker, the film explores the struggles of a man whose identity is constrained by oppressive laws. McKellen, known for his iconic roles like Gandalf and Magneto, portrays a character whose harsh reviews lead to dark actions, including blackmail and murder, when his career is threatened.

Rather than simply criticizing critics, McKellen emphasizes his character's historical context. He shares with Entertainment Weekly that he connected with Jimmy because both are gay, navigating a public life in a time when being oneself was often criminalized. “You lead two lives,” McKellen reflects, acknowledging that Jimmy's appalling behavior can be seen as a response to the injustices he faced.

Since coming out in 1988, McKellen has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, participating in numerous social movements globally. Despite the progress made, including the legalization of gay marriage in many places, McKellen is aware that the harsh realities of the past are not far removed. He recalls friends who faced imprisonment for their relationships, saying, “I didn’t need to do research; it was all within me.”

While Jimmy's actions are troubling, McKellen finds moments of levity in his character. He notes that the screenwriter, Patrick Marber, provided him with sharp and witty lines that add depth to the role.

The Critic is currently in limited release, offering a mix of drama and dark humor as it delves into the life of a critic under duress.