On R List of Movie Reviews

(For optimum viewing, adjust the zoom level of your browser to 125%.)


Red Rock West (1993)

Rate: 5
Viewed: 10/14

RedRock
10/14: Coming fresh off from Kill Me Again, I proceeded to see Red Rock West that's directed by John Dahl.

The story is captivating until Dennis Hopper shows up. Then, it's been downhill from there. The truth is: Nicolas Cage, J.T. Walsh, and Lara Flynn Boyle are enough. Adding Dennis Hopper (or rather Frank Booth) to the mix makes it a crowd. I like him, but he's too much here.

Only Nicolas Cage is the standout, and he proves what a talented actor he was back then. Lara Flynn Boyle is distracting at times; it's not that she's bad but has too much screen time. J.T. Walsh is solid but should be shown longer.

The more twists and turns there are, the more ludicrous and unbelievable the movie is. I'm okay with the hit-and-run incident and think it's cleverly done, but the victim was also shot earlier? It's a coincidence that I cannot accept. The last thirty minutes is tedious which aims for the most convoluted go-for-broke ending possible.

All in all, John Dahl can direct neo-noir pictures, but he needs to show restraint, stick with what's working for a longer time, and draw the line when enough's enough.