S1m0ne

Right now you can watch S1m0ne on streaming — and it is funnier than its reputation suggests. A tight runtime that never overstays its welcome. A 6/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Al Pacino is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. Start it whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

There is a reason S1m0ne keeps coming up in conversation. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate S1m0ne from the crowd. The career of a disillusioned producer, who is desperate for a hit, is endangered when his star walks off the film set. Forced to think fast, the producer decides to digitally create an actress "Simone" to sub for the star — the first totally believable synthetic actress. Al Pacino and Rachel Roberts lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2002. S1m0ne earns its laughs from character rather than situation, which is why it does not wear thin the way pure farce tends to. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, S1m0ne respects your intelligence. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Al Pacino is funny in a way that holds up on rewatch. Put it on when you need something guaranteed to land.