Review of California Split (1974) by Cassian J — 12 Jul 2008

This is a strange movie that is no means bad but was not riveting either. I came across the film on late night TV having no previous knowledge of it, but it did immediately have that loose Robert Altman feel.

The movie is the story of Elliot Gould and George Seagal two compulsive gamblers who meet by chance and form a friendship. There is not that much in the way of a narrative this is more a study of compulsion and the effect it has on people and the seedy world they are forced to habit.

Elliot Gould gives a good performance that is well supported by Seagal and the range of supporting characters are good especially the pair of prostitutes.

All in all this is not a great movie but well worth a watch and I would certainly give it another go.