Robert Altman (1925–2006)

Some hate this; I loved it. Just go in with an open mind. Gould is not Bogart, nor is he trying to be. But he is a man on a mission and he doesn't get distracted by the nude hippies who live next door or someone threatening to emasculate him with a knife. He just keeps insinuating himself into people's lives until he gets to the bottom of things. And it's rock bottom, to be sure. Lots of other memorable performances, particularly Mark Rydell (much better known as an Academy Award-winning director who is riveting as a gang boss). Then there's the waitress that Altman, Gould, and Rydell picked out from a restaurant and gave her a key part--her only film appearance. She is part of the film's most shocking scene, and one that rivals anything I've ever seen. Don't miss this movie. The locations are also incredible, including the High Tower elevator and director Altman's own house, which serves as the house of writer Sterling Hayden and wife Nina Van Pallandt. And then there is Jim "Ball Four" Bouton, who certainly looks the part, even if he doesn't deliver a stellar performance. But he doesn't embarrass himself either. Also, great cars in this one. Don't miss it. Great ending.… (more)