But Jansen (Bradley Cooper) can't expect to bathe in his stolen fame forever. An old man (Jeremy Irons) shows up to claim a story that is rightfully his. Could this spell the end of Jansen's life - or simply material for a new book?
The film unfolds like Inception, with story within story within story. A writer publishes a novel about a writer stealing from another writer. Sadly, the film's subplots can be distracting.
As someone who makes a living with words, I feel for the writers. Plagiarising someone else's voice is simply wrong, and the film strongly reinforces this.
Cooper delivers a solid performance outside his comfort zone. Irons is convincing, and you're never quite sure what the old man's intentions are.
In all, The Words is a gripping and satisfying film that questions integrity above all else.
YP Rating: 4/5