Kiss Kiss Bang Bang with a name like that, you'd be under appreciated too

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

by

Lucas Harbolt

Is a movie underappreciated if the critics love it but the audience is only warm to it? Or is it the other way around? This is a question I've ben asking myself since being given the assignment of reviewing an underappreciated film. This has lead to reviewing the 2005 film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. Directed by Shane Black of Lethal Weapon fame, and boasting the talents of Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer, this tongue-in-cheek noir film gained early critical success but just didn't seem to make the impact that it should have. Actually wasn't until this assignment came along that I actually talked to other people whom have actually heard of the film.

The film begins with a flashback to a magic show and we're given opening narration by our protagonist Harry Lockheart (Downey Jr.). Harry not only narrates, but he back pedals and leaves out important bits of information making for an interesting and enjoyable storytelling device. Harry than robs a toy store with an accomplice. Things take a turn when they get spotted by the police and Harry makes a getaway to what he thinks is an empty building but tuns out to be a casting audition for a film. Naturally he just waltzes in and impresses the crew enough to get him the part.

From here Harry is put together with the character of Perry Van Shrike (Val Kilmer), or "Gay" Perry for short. Perry is a private investigator who is supposed to take Harry on and teach him a few things for his big role. Val Kilmer and Robert Downey Jr. have great chemistry together and both seem to be having fun with their roles which makes the relationship between Harry and Perry very fun to watch and even believable as two "unlikely friends".

Of course while on an investigation things take a turn and that's where the summary ends as I'd like not spoil several twists and turns in the plot. Now, I've been prattling on about the two leads, and not without good reason. The writing, the editing, the shot direction all is great but what really pulls the film together to being special is the interaction between the characters. Not just Harry and Perry but the female lead Harmony (Michelle Monaghan). Harmony, who I left out of my initial summary much like Harry leaves out of his initial narration is Harry's childhood friend and love interest. It's her story that really pushes the plot. Harmony thrusts herself into Perry's case and joins the duo of Perry and Harry to form a nice trio.

One of the great things about the film is how it plays with the detective and noir genre. Harry himself is completely aware that he's in a film in his narration and he plays with the audience expectations. Then again the film as a whole plays with the genre and is very tongue-in-cheek. Director Shane Black gets the best out of every actor and every scene. He tells a great story that in the end isn't just "worth your time", but is just really fun. You'll expect one twist, and get a different one and often times with a smile on your face. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is one of those rare films that just does everything right but just never really took off as it should. Next time you find yourself wanting to watch something good, check for it. You won't be disappointed.