I'm not sure whether or not I like this film. On the one hand, I enjoyed watching it and I respect the fact that it's tried to be a little different; but on the other hand, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang reminds me too much of the guy at the buffet who fills his plate and doesn't end up eating it all. The film is a comedy, a thriller, a murder mystery, an action flick; a character study and a crime film, all rolled into one. It would be hard for any film to take this cocktail and spin it into a coherent piece, but to it's credit; Kiss Kiss Bang Bang almost succeeds; but cracks begin to show where the story is concerned, as the film clearly makes the conglomeration of genres it's central point, and it's too easy to get confused. The film is based on a collection of stories by Brett Halliday, and it follows a petty thief who stumbles into the top flight of Hollywood by chance, and soon finds himself part of a murder investigation after witnessing a car speeding into a lake. The investigation includes a gay detective named 'Gay Perry', and his former childhood sweetheart, Harmony.
The cast is one of the film's main assets. Director Shane Black is always happy to show off his main star, who has finally made his way back into 'A' class movies after some...errr...time out. Downey is a talented actor, and it's through him that the film gains most of its vitality. He is joined by Val Kilmer, who is a lot better than I thought he would be in the role of the gay detective. Michelle Monaghan rounds off the cast, and holds her own against the two bigger name male leads. Shane Black is most famous for his action films, including credits for the Lethal Weapon series and Arnie vehicle; The Last Action Hero, but like the film's main lead; Black has had some time off recently, and this film marks his comeback. Some people were relieved to see the Predator co-star back in action...I cant say I share the sentiment, but all in all; I'm glad that he has finally made his directorial debut with this film. On the whole, this will appeal to people who like their films to be quirky and offbeat. The mock-noir style bodes well with Downey's witty performance, and the film is constantly entertaining; even if it doesn't always hit the mark dead on.
