SWINGERS (1996) Reviewed by The Movie Kid Copyright 1997 Rob Reser
USA Director: Doug Liman Writer: Jon Favreau Stars: Jon Favreau, Vince Vaughn, Ron Livingston, Patrick Van Horn
Poor Mike. But haven't we all been there at one point or time? SWINGERS is a 'life in the week of....' movie and a great one at that. Mike (Jon Favreau) has broken up with his girlfriend and moved to California to 'attempt' to make it as a comedian. His friends are extremely concerned about his well being, however, since he can only obsess over his loss. Checking his answering machine hourly and at very inconvenient times in hopes of hearing her voice he practically refuses to leave his apartment. The guys, however, are there to remedy the situation. In a series of "nights out" Mike is thrust back into the singles scene again and finding that it is much more difficult than he remembers. Trent (Vince Vaughn) is the king of the swingers, though, being able to say the right thing at the right time even though it looks like the wrong thing at the wrong time. His knack at picking up women is unconventional but always right on the "money". The entire gang spends their time trying to boost Mike's horribly low self-esteem by coaching him in the ways of women and by dragging him through California and Las Vegas nightlife. The movie feel is that of just hanging out with a group of guys who exist to have a good time and hit on the "babies". The script is extremely well written and dialog is snappy and hysterical. Director Doug Liman (whose only previous credit is 1994's GETTING IN) does an acceptable job of pacing the film and pulling out the 'real-life' feel and look from the actors. A discussion of good/bad Hollywood directors amongst the guys even leads to a couple of homage scenes that are well placed and enjoyable. SWINGERS soundtrack is well suited adding a jazzy-swing flavor to the picture that only adds to the already exciting ambiance. Feel like a good laugh and a look at the way guys think today? You don't want to miss SWINGERS then. 3 ½ spots. (Out of 4)
Favorite line: The whole bunny/bear conversation
Rob Reser aka THE MOVIE KID
Film Critic
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