Mark Featherstone-Witty

Here's a film that has divided opinion! The gloomy story originated in Germany with no redemption for the main character, let alone anyone else. However fine Jack Nicolson's performance was, you are watching a lonely man falling to pieces. Other well known cast members had little to contribute, so one wonders what the deal was for them. Sean Penn unfortunately allowed the pace to drop so slow that, in places, it felt no directing was taking place. So, watching this film is a mixed experience. If you are looking for light, you won't find it.