Review of Choke (1971) by Shawn A — 26 Aug 2009

CHOKE (2008).

Dir. Clark Gregg.

Cast. Sam Rockwell, Kelly Macdonald, Anjelica HustonChoke is surprisingly only the second adaptation of a novel by cult author Chuck Palahniuk, the first one obviously being Fight Club. Victor Mancini is a sex addict. He has a great scam, goes to a restaurant choke himself until someone saves his life and therefor feel responsible for him and help him out with money and stuff. His mother is delusional, nearly dying and there is a secret she'd like to reveal to her son, but unfortunately, she cant recognize him.Because its from the same author Choke will suffer from the comparison to Fight Club. The sense of humor is basically the same, though not as dark, there are plenty of funny moments thats for sure. But thats where it stops. The adaptation isnt as sharp and its not stylish enough. The tone leans a bit too much towards comedy making the drama less effective. Its crude but still feels toned down a bit for some reason, though I couldnt really tell, I havent read that one.The acting is good though. Sam Rockwell is pretty amazing as usual. Anjelica Huston proves that she shouldnt be forgotten about, and Kelly Macdonald is simply cute. Choke is a bit of a disappointment, even though its not a terrible film, its just not the memorable one I wish it had been.