Posted in
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Billy Green
Jack Nicholson
Karen Black
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Genre
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Drama
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Media
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DVD
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Studio | Uca | ||
Language | English | ||
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Reviewer
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Gareth
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Description
This subtle, existential character study of an emotionally distant outcast (Nicholson) forced to confront his past failures remains an intimate cornerstone of American cinema of the 1970s. Written and directed with remarkable restraint by Bob Rafelson, the film is the result of a short-lived partnership between the filmmaker and Nicholson--the first was the zany formalist exercise, Head, while the equally impressive King of Marvin Gardens followed Five Easy Pieces. Quiet and full of long, controlled takes, this film draws its strength from the acutely detailed, non-judgemental observations of its complex protagonist, Robert Dupea--an extremely crass and frustrated oil worker and failed child pianist hiding from his past in Texas. Dupea spends his life drinking beer and sleeping with (and cheating on) his annoying but adoring Tammy Wynette-wannabe girlfriend, but when he learns that his father is dying in Washington State, he leaves. After the film transforms into a spirited road movie, and arrives at the eccentric upper-class Dupea family mansion, it becomes apparent that leaving is what Dupea does best--from his problems, fears and those who love him.
Review
This is a complex and moving film and show's Jack Nicolson at his finest. Nicholson plays Robert Dupea who on the surface seems like any other failure -working on an oil platform in the desert, drinking his life away whilst involved in a totally unfulfilling relationship with his girlfriend. As the film develops though we realise that Dupea is not only an accomplished pianist but comes from an upper-class family of musicians. It also becomes apparent that Dupea is on the run -not only from his past, but also himself.
When he learns that his father is dying he realises that he has no choice but to confront that past before it's too late. The film then becomes a kind of existential, but quirky road movie.
I really enjoyed this film - it was completely different to what I originally expected it to be when I first saw it years ago. I'd only known Nicholson through Batman (yes, I know... I can hardly look myself in the eye!!); The Shining and A Few Good Men. All his roles had been over-the-top and it surprised me that he could play such a complex and subtle character. Of course, I then realised that he'd starred in Chinatown and One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest!
This is a film that has been criminally passed by both Chinatown & Cuckoo and really deserves more recognition. To me it has a more resonant story as I can really relate to Nicholson's character. Spread the word and find out for yourself - you won't be disappointed!
Oh -and look out for a hilarious scene in the diner, about half way through!!
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