Bullet Head

A lot better than I expected, caught this one on Netflix this evening and it's a straightforward movie. WARNING: dogfights are a major part of this one, although it leaves most of the gore to the viewer's imagination. Not a movie for folks who don't like to hear dogs yelp/sound like they're in pain.

Three thieves (Brody, Culkin, Malkovich) hide out in an abandoned warehouse after a heist. But there's a killer dog on the loose. Reminiscent of Cujo only with really good sets. Had me on the edge of my seat. Intermingled were chunks of exposition on each of the thieves in flashbacks. Culkin was quite good.

A lot of camera work from the dog's point of view, which was a unique element. The first minute of the movie was the worst minute.

For those of us who have watched Brody and Malkovich films and not only appreciated their immense talents, but also respected their free will. For those of us who respect and appreciate their acting abilities and presence that draws viewers into whatever roll they are playing, whatever the vehicle, we might appreciate the story might be more believable, better directed or realized, but it is rare you doubt the actors themselves. Even if the vehicle is...a bit strange or problematic. I liked the film well enough, it wasn't a waste of time, as I liked the dialogues between the two, and the style of showing flashbacks visualizing their revelries was smoothly done. For me, it didn't detract or disrupt the flow. That being said, the story didn't have great depth. It was a "slice of life" in a trio of career criminals day who were interrupted by a dog with issues. which viewers are given a glimpse into.

As some others have said, I thought the perspective of the dog was very well done, to help viewers better understand their perspective, even if overall the premise was almost comedic, but perhaps that was the mission of the writer carried out by the director. If so, it was fulfilled nicely. I've never seen Cujo. I've never seen Reservoir Dogs either. I think it doesn't matter, as they say, "comparisons are odious." The characters of Malkovich and Brody had good conversations and solid presence thoroughout. Their choice in the roles on a clearly non-Oscar worthy script will, of course, be debated by known critics and armchair criticizers, but the emotional aspects of the characters? I can understand why they took the roles. Besides they maybe liked each other, the director, or whatever else. To me, it was far from a waste of time. Another Kulkin, wasn't terrible either, but predictable, as the inevitable conclusion of the story takes place.

If you're sensitive to animal abuse, this film is not for you. If you like cookie cutter heist/action stories, this film is not for you. This felt more like a character study.of the.criminals involved. There are many flashbacks. Personally I liked the writing and pacing a lot. I'm not a fan of dog fighting or animal abuse, but I don't think the film is "glorifying" this behavior. The threat of.the dog as the "monster" felt thrilling and visceral, it had more impact than an armed person or supernatural entity would. Also, the way this film is shot is really cool, there a handful of individual moments that really stick out to me. It feels more like a artsy passion project than something made to make money so I can see why not everyone likes it. I recommend it.

I am writing a review of this film again as my old review got deleted somehow n so this time i will make it a short review. Saw this on a dvd. The trailer, the star cast n the plot were superb but most people will b disappointed cos its not an action oriented or fast paced creature flick. But i enjoyed it. There is too much talking between characters n if u pay attention each character has a story n each involves an animal that had an impact on their lives. There r small scenes of solid tension/suspense n dog chase scenes. It is a small scale survival thriller with more emphasis on characters. Most of the dogs aggressive nature is told off screen n there aint enuff body count. The directors earlier effort Grace was a bit slow too. Has shades of Cujo n Reservoir dogs.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this movie. It´s not the best movie ever but it tells different stories, the filming and acting is great, there were twists and surprises.. I enjoyed it.