Kalifornia (Review)
United States/1993
Format Viewed For Review: Netflix Streaming
Netflix Streaming: No
Amazon Prime: No
"...the
right blend of horror, psychology, and insight..."
In
order to write an honest book about serial killers, Brian Kessler
(David Duchovny) and his girlfriend, photographer Carrie (Michelle
Forbes), travel across the country visiting infamous murder sites. The
pair share the trip with Early (Brad Pitt) and his gal... unknowing of
Early's psychotic tendencies...
Kalifornia continues to follow
the two couples on their road trip. Carrie doesn't care for their road
buddies, but Brian embraces them with open arms. But, as they travel
further, they get some insight into their true characters, particularly
Early's. Every now and then, Early slips into his serial killer mode and
slaughters an unsuspecting victim. But, Kalifornia is not a slasher,
the bulk of the film focuses on character, and it's interesting to see
the various character arcs. Brian does things, like shooting a gun or
drinking excessively, that show honest character development. The final
act of the film becomes a little more of a slasher than expected, but it
works out well.
Kalifornia is an effective psychological horror
film. Now, this isn't a film about hallucinations or delusions --
that's not what I mean by psychological. Instead, this is a film that
gets under your skin as it focuses on honest, believable characters.
Some may be stereotypes, but there aren't any superheroes or villains.
The concept is unique and creative, and well developed, despite some
plot contrivances. I honestly thoroughly enjoyed the story. It's the
right blend of horror, psychology, and insight; and it all blends to
create an engaging and entertaining film overall.
However, there
is one significant complaint: Carrie. Carrie is one of the most annoying
characters ever captured on film. (maybe an exaggeration, but you get
the point.) She's a complete buzz-kill with her annoying, pretentious
stuck-up attitude. In fact, I'd say Early is a much more likable person
than Carrie despite Early being the real antagonist. I can fully
understand annoying characters in film when they serve a purpose. This
character does not serve a purpose, but to annoy the audience with her
smug facial expressions. Maybe it's to show the difference between Brian
and Carrie, which would work, but for what purpose?
Anyway, Brad
Pitt is fantastic in this role; he maybe too charismatic for the role,
though, I shouldn't like Early more than Carrie. Michelle Forbes plays
her character well, I can't fault her for the character she plays. David
Duchovny is also great, but he lacks screen presence -- he's easily
outshined by Pitt. The score was great. The film was also shot nicely.
Dominic Sena's direction is great, delivering a consistent film and
pulling great performances from the cast; it does feel like it lacked
focus towards the end, but just a tiny bit. Otherwise, the film is
technically up to par with most of the best 90s films.
Overall,
Kalifornia
is an effective serial killer horror film. It's a disturbing
look at several characters and their actions, as well as insightful
experience; it's not an encyclopedia of information, but you may learn a
little something from Kalifornia. The film loses some steam and focus
towards the end, and one character spoils the trip for everyone, but the
bulk of the film is great.
Score: 8/10
Parental Guide: Strong violence and blood, nudity and some sex.
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