A very over-rated film, dull and tedious, with flat performances, and uninspired writing. The look of the film is like those of Jerry Bruckheimer, in that it looks like a music video. Smoky rooms, with light bursting through one open window. Although tolerable in a three minute video, it gets tiring over the course of a feature film. What's more, except for the cars, it doesn't at all resemble the time in which it is set. The dialogue is basic, the plot is predictable. I'd include spoilers, but you can see everything coming. Though not long at 111 minutes, it feels much longer. This is due to the labored manner of the actors, as though everyone is trying to emulate Christopher Walken. One Walkenian performance per film is enough. Sean Penn has never looked worse, with his seeming wannabe-intensity. Which basically describes this entire film. It is a pantomime of grittiness.
Review of At Close Range
