Review of The Big White (2005) by Johnny T — 15 Aug 2014

Obviously channeling Fargo, this Alaskan-set dark comedy has a surprisingly robust cast of stars lead by Robin Williams. Enjoyably quirky thriller with bizarre, off-the-wall performances from its entire cast and some striking location work. This film caught my eye immediately, mostly due to the cast. The entire cast has been in movies that I have loved. When reading the synopsis, this movie seemed like something I'd love. Robin Williams delivers another beautifully zany performance alongside the underrated Giovanni Ribisi. The Big White is a darkly amusing film and I liked the way the different parts of the story came together. There are some laugh out loud moments and I think it's best when Williams and Ribisi are sharing the screen. However, Holly Hunter has the brightest spots of the movie and apparently she did a lot of research to make sure her portrayal was accurate. A very good and underrated little movie, full of black comedy, clever coincidences and plot twists. You can't go into Big White and expect Fargo, but for a similar tone and style, this will suffice. This film is funny, with slapstick and moments of off-beat humour, and has real drama and a gentle sweetness running through it.

VERDICT: "High-Quality Stuff" - [Positive Reaction] This is a rating to a movie I view as very entertaining and well made, and definitely worth paying the full price at a theatre to see or own on DVD. It is not perfect, but it is definitely excellent. (Films that are rated 3.5 or 4 stars).