Like all great conspiracy films of the 70′s, it’s less of what actually happens plot-wise, as the twists and turns often end up being too implausible to follow, but, through the mood and tone the film initially sets up then takes it’s time to resolve, where the film finds it’s power. Additionally, it’s the slow evolution, or devolution of the central character reacting to forces beyond his control that holds our principle interest and keeps us wondering what ‘s behind each locked door. Perhaps this is where the detractors of The Domino Principle congregate in collective agreement; namely that the film simply takes too long to get where it’s going. That may be so, but the pacing reminiscent of Melville’s Le Samurai, forces the audience to linger in anticipation within the still, slow moving frame. But unlike Melville’s masterpiece, the difference lay in the payoff and I’m not sure if the faults of The Domino Principle added up, satisfy enough to qualify the film as something more than a second tier Stanely Kramer effort.
Grade: B
Filed under: MOVIE REVIEWS SEPT 09'
If I were to list my top thrillers of all time, Breakdown might find its’ way somewhere in the top 10 for a number of reasons. First and foremost being my appreciation of anything Kurt Russell (yes, even Tango and Cash has it’s merits thanks to Kurt) so perhaps I am not the most bias critic of this particular film, flaws and all. Periodically, I throw in this DVD when I’m in the mood for something fast and easily consumable. And perhaps that’s the point of films like this; to entertain without flexing too many brain muscles in the process.
Though, certainly Breakdown echoes Spielberg’s DUEL wherein seemingly without provocation, one’s life is turned around by the relentless persuit by unknown assailants, twisting a hapless hero’s ordinary life into one of fear and paranoia. At first a victim of circumstances seemingly beyond his control, Kurt Russell’s everyday yuppie, forced beyond his breaking point becomes a man of action, capable of feats previously unbeknown to himself and certainly his loving, yet naive wife, who chooses to hitch a ride with a trucker who offers to take her to the nearest phone booth only 30 miles away; the catalyst that propels the story forward. Yet, wasn’t it really Kurt’s refusal to simply apologize (without attitude) to one of the local boys, whom he nearly rear-ended only moments before, after momentarily taking his eyes off the road. That simple apology may have prevented the entire tragic turn of events, or perhaps not. Perhaps, our villains, who are revealed to have a long history of robbing and killing the rich tourists who drive through their little town, an insignificant speck in the rearview mirror, a meaningless no name town full of meaningless no name people, are out to prove that they exist. They might not have much but they are there. Well ,certainly Kurt will never forget it.
Grade: B+
