My Salinger Year
Relocating to New York all alone to pursue the ultimate dream of being a successful writer can be a daunting experience as Joanna (Margaret Qualley) discovered exclaiming, “I don’t want to be ordinary – I want to be extraordinary!”
She accepts a job at a literary agency run by Margaret (Sigourney Weaver) which represented J. D Salinger, an accomplished writer whose 1951 novel The Catcher In The Rye was deemed a masterpiece.
Instructed to read then destroy any fan mail directed to Salinger, she begins to secretly respond to many of these letters. Touched by the fan mail and compounded by advice from notoriously reclusive Salinger himself to write daily, her road to success as a writer is pathed.
This is a small film based on true events for discerning audiences that gives an insight into the behind the scenes running of literary agencies. It’s slow-paced with memorable performances but is suspiciously reminiscent of The Devil Wears Prada.
It’s not a blockbuster nor a holiday treat, but good viewing for the more mature audiences who expect quality viewing. (MMo)
★★★ ½
