He is the main character in the book because he is the guy who speaks the truth and is unashamed of that. In the film he is named Mark Baum. Why in the fuck does Hollywood do this shit? Both of Eisman's compatriots have their real names, Vinny Daniels and Danny Moses. Does anybody who knows the story not think that Mark Baum isn't Steve Eisman? Fuck Hollywood!
And the film is classed as a comedy! Well, Michael Lewis certainly has a sense of humor. But this is more tragedy than comedy. However, here's one amusing scene with Eisman from the book. (Among many)
His interaction with the head of a Japanese real estate firm is illustrative. Eisman, through an interpreter, is discussing whether he will invest in the company. I'll let Lewis take the rest of the narrative.
Eisman noted that the guy's financial statements didn't actually disclose any of the really important details about the guy's company; but, rather than simply say that, he lifted the statement in the air, as if disposing of a turd. "This is toilet paper," he said. "Translate that."
"The Japanese guy takes off his glasses," recalled a witness to the strange encounter. "His lips were quavering. World War Three is about to break out. 'Toy-lay paper? Toy-lay paper?'"
If that scene gets into the movie it would be worth any price of admission. Fortunately there are many more Eisman encounters in the book which would equally qualify. Double dipping the edamame in Las Vegas with Wing Chau, a guy on the other end of the economic doomsday machine, is another good Eisman moment. His social graces may not be appropriate, but he surely figured things out. And that is what matters. Eisman immediately decided to bet against Chau after their meeting. BTW, Wing Chau eventually goes broke, like many on that side of the bet. Eisman got very wealthy, but took little pleasure in it. He's a complex character. I hope Steve Carell does a good job portraying him .
The film is not showing here yet. Back woods! I may have to wait for the NetFlicks DVD.
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