Continued from yesterday…
Paul Avery: What do you do for fun?
Robert Graysmith: I love to read.
Paul Avery: Mhmm.
Robert Graysmith: Umm, I enjoy books.
Paul Avery: Those are the same things.
This scene plays out the differences between these two characters— one is an introvert and one an extravert. Calling someone out when they say something dumb during a conversation is something only someone with confidence will do.
Robert Graysmith: I just want to help.
Ken Narlow: What are you, some kind of boy scout?
Robert Graysmith: Eagle Scout, actually... First class.
Narlows question is delivered with sarcasm, Graysmith’s response with sincerity. It both makes each character different but establishes what kind of person Graysmith is. He’s slightly naive.
At a bar, Avery and Graysmith are discussing the case, getting to know each other.
Paul Avery: Right, this can no longer be ignored.
Paul Avery: [points at Graysmith's drink, which is blue. Graysmith looks confused]
Paul Avery: What is that you're drinking?
Robert Graysmith: It's an Aqua Velva. You wouldn't make fun of it if you tried it.
Paul Avery: [tastes it. Time passes and they've both had a few more]
Nice interplay between the characters, Robert Downey Jr as Paul Avery is nothing short of genius in this film.
Melvin Belli: Inspectors, he sent this letter directly to my residence. It is a cry for help intended as a private communique.
Dave Toschi: Which is why you contacted The Chronicle.
Melvin Belli: The people have a right to know.
One of my favorite characters in the movie is the Attorney Melvin Belli— he’s larger than life as he was in the late 60s.
More of this kind of stuff soon.