Review of Kalifornia (1993) by Randy K — 24 Jul 2009

Whilst it won't set the world on fire, this was a solid little thriller that has a couple of terrific central performances from Brad and Juliette.

The conceit of the story is a little contrived, but it doesn't really spoil the film too much. It's just a little hokey to have a serial killer obsessed writer in a car with a killer who doesn't recognise any of the signs despite the continual protestations of his girlfriend. Duchovny plays the guy as if he's sleepwalking his way through the events, but he is likeable enough as is Michelle Forbes. The only thing is that they are such a self obsessed couple, they kinda deserve the problems that they face.

Brad is on fine form playing a truly filthy and nasty piece of work. He is fascinating to watch and he brings a goofy charm to this guy that's hard to explain. Lewis is also very good here. The way that she plays out her characters fears, knowing that something is wrong with where her life is going and the but still trying to find the good in it, it's very clever and solid work.

This is not perfect by any stretch but it's a pretty good watch all the same.