Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
Las Vegas on LSD.
Presentation:
Terry Gilliam’s films already feel like a psychedelic experience, so what happens when he explicitly makes ones? The cast in this film is quite impressive and you’re taken aback by some of the unexpected stars cameoing for a scene or two. The presentation has even more zany flair with distorted ultra wide lensing and shutter drag. To convey a hallucinogenic state, the film perhaps implements the most amount of dutch angles ever used in a film. Benicio del Toro is okay, but I was disappointed by Johnny Depp’s performance, whom portrays a better addict in Pirates of the Caribbean. One thing the film does get right, is it delivers the paranoia and emotional state of tripping on acid. I think the set design is here is really reminiscent of Ron Howards How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Conclusion:
I can see the appeal in this film, but it is really not for me. This is essentially a cinematic mood piece for stoners with little story and character development. It’s a wild, unhinged trip, but there are many films that have done this better. But if you want a sillier more Gilliamesque version, then this might be the high you’re looking for.
Recommendations
Las Vegas on LSD.