Review of Red Rock West (1993) by Jacek S — 30 Mar 2009

A few years ago I made myself a promise never to see a Nicolas Cage picture again. I don't remember exactly what was the picture that finally did it, but I do remember that I was very thorough about my promise. Yet it seems that I can't resist to watch Dennis Hopper or J. T. Walsh act whenever I get the chance, and it seems that even poor Cage can't be a reason strong enough to keep my away. Hopper plays psychopats better than anyone, he's played them so many times that in "Red Rock West" he plays one basically with closed eyes but he's terrific. As for J. T. Walsh? Well, you don't say "no" to a great character actor.

"Red Rock West" turns out to be a nice little plot-driven neo-noir, offering couple of fresh twists that keep you seated. Of course, Cage's terrible. Fake as McDonald's and wooden as a church confession but there's enough going around to forget him - for instance, a lovely Lara Flynn Boyle who plays an alcoholic, manipulative femme fatale; a part she's clearly perfect for.