Rules Don’t Apply (2016)

Rules Dont Apply (2016): A Charming Romantic Comedy Set in the Golden Age of Hollywood

Introduction

Rules Dont Apply is a 2016 American romantic comedy-drama film written, produced, and directed by Warren Beatty. Set in the glamorous and often mysterious world of 1950s Hollywood, the film offers a whimsical yet poignant look at the romance and challenges faced by individuals navigating the labyrinth of Hollywood's Golden Era. The movie blends historical context with fictional narrative, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the conflict between personal desires and professional limitations.

Plot Summary

The story is set in 1958 and revolves around a young, talented actress named Marla Mabrey, portrayed by Lily Collins, who signs a contract with the eccentric billionaire and film mogul Howard Hughes, played by Warren Beatty himself. Alongside Marla is Frank Forbes, a young, ambitious actor played by Alden Ehrenreich, who also works under Hughes employ as a driver. Hughes is a complex character—brilliant yet controlling, and he enforces strict moral and professional guidelines on his employees to maintain his reputation and ideals.

Marla and Franks lives become intertwined as they navigate the stringent rules Hughes enforces on his contracts. Although their employer discourages romantic relationships between his employees, Frank and Marla find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. While the film unfolds their romance, it also delves into the enigmatic personality of Howard Hughes, capturing his eccentricities, paranoia, and genius.

The film explores how love challenges the firm rules and restrictions instated by Hughes, creating both comedic and dramatic moments. The narrative reflects on the cost of fame, the demands of loyalty, and the conflict between following rules and following one's heart.

Main Cast and Characters

• Warren Beatty as Howard Hughes: The legendary industrialist, film producer, and aviator, whose real-life persona inspired the character. Beatty, who also directed and wrote the film, channels Hughes complexity, from his visionary brilliance to his neurotic tendencies.
• Alden Ehrenreich as Frank Forbes: A charismatic young actor and driver for Hughes who is focused on his career but finds love in unlikely circumstances.
• Lily Collins as Marla Mabrey: An ambitious, innocent, and spirited aspiring actress under contract with Howard Hughes.
• Haley Bennett: Although a supporting role, Bennett adds to the social and professional dynamic within the film's Hollywood world.

Direction and Writing

The film is a passion project for Warren Beatty, who took on the roles of director, writer, producer, and lead actor. Having been fascinated by Howard Hughes for decades, Beatty intended this film as both a tribute and a character study. The screenplay reflects Beatty's meticulous research and affection for the era, combining historical facts and fictional elements to tell a captivating story. His direction captures the glamour and undercurrents of 1950s Hollywood, with a careful attention to detail in costumes, settings, and dialogues.

Music and Soundtrack

Unlike Bollywood films that often feature elaborate song-and-dance sequences, Rules Dont Apply primarily functions as a Hollywood romantic comedy-drama and does not include traditional musical numbers. However, the film's music and score, composed by Thomas Newman, enhances the nostalgic and romantic mood. The soundtrack subtly accompanies the storyline without interrupting the narrative flow, emphasizing emotions and the period setting.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Rules Dont Apply received mixed reviews from critics. Many praised the performances, especially Alden Ehrenreichs charm and Lily Collins earnestness, as well as Warren Beattys approach to portraying Hughes. The film was lauded for its vintage aesthetic and attention to production design capturing late 1950s Hollywood glamor. However, some critics felt that the films narrative pacing and screenplay could have been tighter.

Despite not being a major box office hit, the movie is valued by fans of Hollywood history and vintage romantic dramas. It offers a unique glimpse into the larger-than-life persona of Howard Hughes while delivering a sweet, unconventional love story. The film underscores how love can thrive even in the most restrictive and controlled environments.

Conclusion

Rules Dont Apply is a film that wears its heart on its sleeve. Through Warren Beattys passionate direction and the earnest performances by its leads, the movie becomes a nostalgic ode to the perils and promise of Hollywoods golden era. The story acts as a reminder that while rules govern many aspects of life, they can rarely suppress the unexpected and transformative power of love.

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