The Sun's Man At The Movies

An unbelievably stunning women becomes a huge celebrity because the world seems unable to see that she's not actually real.

Simone may sound a bit like the Geri Halliwell story (apart from the unbelievably stunning bit) - but in fact it's a clever satire on the Hollywood star system.

Disillusioned director Viktor Taransky (Al Pacino) hits rock bottom when a spoiled-brat superstar played by Winona Ryder storms off his film.

The movie and Viktor's career seem doomed - until a dying genius hands over a computer program that allows him to create the perfect virtual reality actress.

Viktor secretly conjures up a stunning blonde whom he calls Simone (short for Simulation One) and edits her into the movie.

Viktor keeps them at bay by claiming she is a recluse who refuses to give interviews. But when her second film Eternal Forever is also a huge hit, Simone fever gets out of control - and Viktor finds it increasingly hard to keep his secret under wraps.

Simone won't have audiences rolling in the aisles but it's packed with sly humour and great digs at Hollywood.

One actor desperate for a part in Viktor's second film gushes: "I haven't yet read Eternal Forever - but I think it's great."

And there are some funny swipes at the media's obsession with celebrity, especially the gullible reporting of any old rubbish Viktor feeds them, like a rumour that Simone is dating Stephen Hawking.

The film also avoids being too pious. Viktor may be an artist tortured by the whims of talentless actors, but his movies are also unbelievably dull and pretentious.

Pacino is once again excellent - never allowing the character of Viktor to become a caricature. Also on top form is Being John Malkovich's Catherine Keener, as Victor's cynical ex-wife and studio chief.

Simone also looks amazing. The film-makers have claimed she really is computer generated. But an American newspaper recently revealed she's the face and body of model Rachel Roberts with a few minor digital tweaks. I'm certain they're right. Virtually.

HOT OR ROT:Blonde leading the blind - 7/10.

To see what Neil makes of K19: the Widowmaker, Donnie Darko, High Crimes, Possession and Halloween: Resurrection Click Here or follow the link below.

And check the Related Sites below for all the websites from the movies within the movie.