Review of Special (1967) by Dan Y — 13 May 2010
Michael Rapaport proves why he deserves more leading roles in movies. Special is a funny, odd, and sad psychological journey.
His character, the comic book loving Les Franken who is the embodiment of the extremely average joe, takes part in a test trial for an experimental drug outside of the FDA or any government oversight. The drug, called Special, begins to have strange effects on Les. He discovers some truly startling abilities, like something out of the comic books he loves. But is this all in his head? Those around him think so, but Les is convinced he has powers, some of which do seem to manifest themselves in reality. He creates a costume for himself and proceeds to fight crime on the streets, after subduing a would be thief with a gun at the grocery store he frequents. Unfortunately, Les' antics land him on the wanted list for the local police. On top of that, he starts getting pursued by the creators of the drug who want him to cease taking the pills, but Les won't budge. He wants to be somebody, he wants his life to have meaning, even if it kills him.
A delightful independent production with a highly underrated lead man.
This review of Special (1967) was written by Dan Y on 13 May 2010.
Special has generally received positive reviews.
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