James Franco stars in his new film The Broken Tower, releasing in theaters April 27, 2012. He plays American poet Hart Crane; whose dark and tortured life led him to commit suicide in April of 1932. Franco not only acts in the film, but he also wrote, edited, directed and produced it. His inspiration stemming from the biography of Hart Crane, written by Paul Mariani, also poignantly titled The Broken Tower. The biography depicts Crane as a misunderstood individual with a drinking problem, promiscuous sexual relationships, and financial struggles. Also, with a writing style very different from his literary peers, Crane even felt isolated in his art form. The film, in black-and-white, provides an edgy dramatization of his life, but with a palpable authenticity. Through watching Franco portray the legendary rebel Crane, we are able to witness the life of a man whose genius brought about his own downfall.

By: Lauren Bustos