Harry Lockhart (Robert Downey Jr.) has not been very successful in life so far. But when he has a chance encounter with childhood friend Harmony Faith Lane (Michelle Monaghan), Harry’s propensity to make the worst of a situation lands him into an old fashioned, film noir worthy, murder mystery.
What discerns this movie from any other B-movie with an overdose of plot twists are the acting, the dialogue and the cinematography. Robert Downey Jr. and Michelle Monaghan are great as likable characters who haven’t quite made the most of their careers, but it’s Val Kilmer as Gay Perry who steals the show. Generally not known as a star in self-mockery, Kilmer plays Perry with all the seriousness and dedication that makes this character so hilarious. It’s Kilmer’s restraint that keeps Gay Perry from going over the top. All the brilliant dialogue, that may sound pretty cheesy on paper, is not wasted on these underrated actors.
The look of the movie is, well… simply gorgeous. Highlights are the opening title sequence and the Christmas party scene, but there is much, much more to enjoy.
One word of advice before watching this movie: do not expect brilliance. Just sit down for a low key, non-blockbuster B-movie to have yourself entertained a little, and by the closing credits you’ll realize that you have just watched a brilliant film.
