Review of Kiss Kiss... Bang Bang (1966) by Ben B — 31 Jul 2016

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang stars Robert Downey Jr. as a petty thief who wanders into an audition for a movie role, lands the part, and is thrown into a major private investigation alongside a professional PI (played by Val Kilmer) including his childhood crush (played by Michelle Monaghan).

This was an entertaining approach to a crime noir movie. RDJ served as both character and narrator, and his narrations were witty and hilarious. The way he gives his and Michelle's backstories is hysterical and self-aware. The film score was appropriate for the style of film presented. Like other Shane Black movies, KKBB establishes an environment and specific time period, this movie being early 2000's LA at Christmas. Shane Black always does a great job making his sets come to life, and this movie is no exception. Val Kilmer delivers what is probably one of his funniest roles; he really steals the show whenever he's on-screen. RDJ is always enjoyable, and Monaghan delivers despite her character being very wishy-washy.

There are a few things that hold this movie back. The plot of the case, especially its resolution, is a bit confusing. Also, there were some scenes where the noir-style was abandoned in favor of a will-they-won't-they romance between RDJ and Monaghan. The scenes were good, but they just didn't fit in with the overall film.

Overall, this is a good movie and a solid directorial debut for Shane Black. It isn't as good as The Nice Guys, but it's definitely watchable. If you like his movies, these actors, or crime-noir movies, go watch Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.

Final grade: B.

-Ben.