Film Forum

Episode Recap

Episode 6

11/15/2005

Films Reviewed: Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and Derailed

Commentary: The works of Shane Black

Featurette: Behind the scenes of Walk the Line

Regarding Kiss Kiss Bang Bang:

Matt: Shane Black, the writer of Lethal Weapon among other films, took his time to make his film debut. And while it isn’t the second coming of cinema, it is a pretty good way to spend a couple of hours at the movie theater on a Saturday night. Kind of sick, but pretty fun. Three stars.

Aron: This movie is a lot of fun! It’s twisted, it’s self-aware, but it’s a great way for a writer to make a directorial debut! Val Kilmer and Robert Downey Jr make a great odd couple and it’s nice to see a side of Los Angeles never put on film. Keep your fingers on you! Four stars!

Average Rating: ***1/2 (out of ****)

Regarding Derailed:

Aron: This is a neat thriller with a few twists you won’t see coming. Jennifer Anniston and Clive Owen make a good couple caught in the clutches of an extortionist in Chicago. Great use of locations and nifty dialogue. Three and a half stars.

Matt: Well, one plot twist in a movie is perfectly fine. Two plot twists, however, shows a lack of faith in your script. Granted, Vincent Cassel delivers a fantastic performance as the bad guy, but I couldn’t help but want more out of this thriller. Two and a half stars.

Average Rating: *** (out of ****)

Commentary:  Shane Black has been on the Hollywood scene since his debut script. It was a little movie called Lethal Weapon. Aron and Matt took a few minutes to look at his career.

Featurette: Behind the scenes of Walk the Line, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon.