Review of Swingers (1996) by Hoops2448 — 05 Oct 2011

Swingers is almost a perfect film. From the opening trip to Vegas to the final frame it achieves what it sets out to do which is tell a story of failing actors who are so naive they think they have what it takes to make it big.

The main story is that of Jon Favreau's Mike, a heartbroken comedian/actor whose self esteem was so wrapped up in his relationship now that he is single he doesn't seem to have any. Not only is Favreau's character incredibly convincing, he is also the only real thing about Swingers, a film that points out everything fake about Hollywood.

Mikes best friends are constantly showing their best sides while as a matter of fact who they really are isn't really worth knowing. However their terrible attempts at being seen as something serious is what brings most of the comedy to the film with Vince Vaughns Trent being a compulsive liar.

Doug Liman finds a balance between the very honest, open story of Mike and the often hilarious lies that spew from Trent's mouth as they traverse Vegas and LA over a pretty 'mundane' week in Hollywood.

The only problem with the film is that once the action leaves Vegas it takes 15 minutes for the film to find its groove again. Swingers works because it not only provides an ironic look at the kind of people living in Hollywood but it also provides so much heart and laughter that its hard to look away with an ending that is well worth it.