Directed by Neil Jordan • 1986 • United Kingdom
Starring Bob Hoskins, Cathy Tyson, Michael Caine
The brilliant breakthrough film by writer-director Neil Jordan journeys into the dark heart of the London underworld to weave a gripping, noir-infused love story. Bob Hoskins received a multitude of honors—including an Oscar nomination—for his touchingly vulnerable, not-so-tough-guy portrayal of George, recently released from prison and hired by a sinister mob boss (Michael Caine) to chauffeur call girl Simone (Cathy Tyson, in a celebrated performance) between high-paying clients. George’s fascination with the elegant, enigmatic Simone leads him on a dangerous quest through the city’s underbelly, where love is a weakness to be exploited and betrayed. Jordan’s colorful dialogue and eye for evocatively surreal details lend a dreamlike sheen to MONA LISA, an unconventionally romantic tale of damaged people searching for tenderness in an unforgiving world.
Directed by Neil Jordan • 1986 • United Kingdom
Starring Bob Hoskins, Cathy Tyson, Michael Caine
The brilliant breakthrough film by writer-director Neil Jordan journeys into the dark heart of the London underworld to weave a gripping, noir-infused love story. Bob Hoskins received a multitude of ...
Recorded in 1996, this commentary features director Neil Jordan and actor Bob Hoskins.
These interviews with writer-director Neil Jordan and actor Bob Hoskins took place at the 1986 Cannes Film Festival on the eve of the premiere of MONA LISA. The film would go on to receive a nomination for that year’s Palme d’Or and a win for Hoskins, for best actor.
This conversation with writer-director Neil Jordan and actor Cathy Tyson was moderated by critic Ryan Gilbey and conducted via Zoom from Ireland and London in spring 2021.
