Review of California Split (1974) by Graham J — 24 Oct 2011
Not a typical Altman movie in that there is a sparse number of characters we are invited to explore. Here, the most tangible character is the Casino itself, which seems to haunt every aspect of what appears on screen.
The same stifling atmosphere that permeates the opening scene continues throughout the film and throughout the characters actions. We are, like our lead character Bill (played by George Segal), trapped among a throng of irritated, desperate, restless people.
Even if we wanted to get out, we would find it almost impossible to move. Even shots outside the casinos are framed tightly and surrounded by close hallways and tiny rooms. Truly, the story plays precisely like a trip to Vegas, both for Bill and for us: we arrive and are stimulated by the chaos and energy, encouraged by a happenstance friend to act more reckless than we ever would in the outside world, quickly find ourselves in over our heads but attempting to chase last night's rush.
..then Sunday arrives and all you want to do is get out of there. Your skin is crawling and all you can see is the basest parts of humanity laid bare around you and you're horrified.
This review of California Split (1974) was written by Graham J on 24 Oct 2011.
California Split has generally received very positive reviews.
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