Review of Joe's Apartment (1996) by Shirley F — 02 Jan 2019

This was supposed to be a breezy comedy but there's barely any comedy and despite an encouraging start the film looses its pace in the second half. I like the way the film develops in the early stages, taking some chances and daring to be a little different.

Not much of the comedy is uproarious, but Joe's Apartment has a few clever moments, at least until it loses its edge. The cockroaches, which are the product of digital animation, are quite real-looking.

They're a little less disturbing than the genuine article because they sound like Alvin and the Chipmunks. Unfortunately, the film makers seem inordinately fond of the little creatures, and, as a result, they quickly become overexposed.

The film's greatest failing, however, is the manner in which it treats its human characters. Joe is one of the least-interesting personalities to grace the screen this year. Despite being described as the "dirtiest freakin' slob on the planet", he seems remarkably clean and well-groomed and his girlfriend is equally bland, which means that the only two significant people in this film aren't worth more than a yawn or two.

(Good first half then a sloppy second one make this movie a cursory glance).