Big Kahuna, The (1999)

reviewed by
Ross Anthony


Life's a Pitch
The Big Kahuana
By Ross Anthony

Didn't get enough of Kevin Spacey this Oscar season? Well, the Kahuana has got plenty more of that dry dark humor and smug eyebrow raising to quench your appetite for the snake-tongued hard guy with a heart.

Adapted from its more appropriately named play: "Hospitality Suite," "Big Kahuana" never leaves a 16th floor Wichita hotel room. But that's okay, because acting power times three doesn't necessitate a change of scenery - though direction and script are pretty darned important too. Don't worry, they're included with the price of your ticket.

Three industrial lubricant representatives discuss sales strategy, religion, character and carrot sticks vs. shrimp on ice. Spacey plays the aggressive, no-holds-barred, long-time friend of the depressed, yet sweet Danny Devito. Facinelli is the new guy, Bob, innocent and perhaps a bit too saintly for the task at hand.

Spacey is a devilish delight. Devito's films can be hit or miss, but this is one is certainly more on than off and refreshingly devoid of his Louie character persona. Facinelli shows great talent and patience with his role, flaunting his range when compared to that interstellar killer role in "Supernova."

If we've all got something to sell, what parts do character and integrity play in our occupational goals? The film explores these questions in a simple, compelling, entertaining, stage-felt way.

Best quote: "That's the last thing I need to do ... grease another ***hole for the lubricant industry."

See Ross Anhony's interview with Danny Devito, Peter Facinelli and John Swanbeck at the website: http://www.rossanthony.com/interviews/devito.shtml

-- Copyright © 2000. Ross Anthony, currently based in Los Angeles, has scripted and shot documentaries, music videos, and shorts in 35 countries across North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. For more reviews visit: http://RossAnthony.com


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