Let's start with the images. Gilliam has plenty. Perfectly using different locations and filters to enhance the viewer's experience. Not to forget the outright absurd, such as Michael Jeter (another that left us too soon) as a homeless person in a drag singing showtunes. Though there are plenty of outrageous scenes here, it never takes focus from what this film is really about: Fate and the people affected by it.
Though Gilliam has quite a few tricks up his sleeve visually, the brilliance of this film is very much down to the three lead actors. Bridges delivers a stunning performance as the self-loathing Jack whose life goes into turmoil when a radio-listener of his goes on a shooting spree. Staggering drunkenly (guess what he drinks) about his life, with an utter disdain for his own existence, treating those around him as total garbage (line to his girlfriend as to how they met: "Suicidal paranoiacs will say anything to get laid"), he really is at rock bottom. Apart from the beginning, where his well-known swagger shines.
Robin Williams combines what was to become his trademark here. Utter madness with an exceptional warmth and underplayed wisdom, combined with the ability to make others see their lives from a different angle. Both as characters and actors the two are perfectly matched.
Mercedes Ruehl won an Academy Award for her part here, and though she is very good, it's her interaction with Bridges that comes across as such a highlight. The hidden bitterness, the slight flirtation at times, and, not least, the looks and expression between the two adds so much without taking any real space at all. Kudos to all three.
Gilliam has a knack for being sentimental without overdoing it, and is even better at leaving a little something for the viewer to ponder, instead of painting with broad strokes. The scene where Williams walks Amanda Plummer to the door is so well-written, perfectly executed and timed, it is nothing less than a fullblown treat. He's also underestimated at dialogue and some of the lines from Williams and Bridges really are brilliant. Not to mention the perfect cameo for Tom Waits who works as the cynic and realist just when we need it the most.
Is this a classic? No, but it really is a fantastic view, with some truly breath-taking performances from the leads. Besides, it is very funny at times, and how could it not be when Williams is given a good script and a treat of a character.
8/10
