Review of Falling Down (1993) by Eric D — 21 Jul 2010

I know, for a fact, how much of a bummer it is to race to a McDonald's or Tim Horton's only to find that I've missed their breakfast menu. That's basically what this film is: a series of completely everyday occurrences, that everyone can relate to having to deal with, but dealt with in a rather extreme (and many times comical) way.

Falling Down is interesting, not only because of its juxtapositioning of humor and social commentary, but how relevant it was to the time it was released. They hadn't even finished filming when the Los Angeles riots--sparked by the Rodney King trial verdict--broke out.

Michael Douglas is the standout in his performance as D-FENS, a man who's lost what defined him (both personally and professionally) and simply snaps. At the same time, he manages to retain a humanity which makes it all the more believable when, at the climax of the film, he asks incredulously, "I'm the bad guy?".

The film is made all the more surprising when you factor in that it was directed by the guy who brought us "Batman & Robin." Yes, Joel Shumacher was actually capable of making a decent film or two at one point.

Funny and fascinating (and cathartic). Don't miss it.