Bulworth (1998)

BULWORTH could be better, I'm rather surprised to report.  Having 
read the many rave-but-reserved reviews, I was prepared for both 
the over-plotting and the over-preaching.  (The latter is kinda 
funny, with the actors periodically breaking into socio-political 
monologues.)  What wasn't expected were so (relatively) few laughs.  
Though enjoyably droll overall, the film's best gimmick-- the title 
character "telling it like it is"-- plays out over only a handful 
of scenes.  Worse, a good third of *those* have already been shown 
in the trailers!  What's left is a mediocre mash of sub-par sub-
plots (plus one crappy ending), involving hit men and gang members 
and a disinterested-looking Halle Berry as the tag-along love 
interest.  (Really, you'd think the co-writer/director/producer/
star would've pushed the envelope harder and further.)  Still, you 
*do* get to see Warren Beatty in "gangsta attire" and that's as 
unforgettable a sight as they come...  (Rated "R"/108 min.)

Grade: B- 

Copyright 1998 Michael J. Legeros
Movie Hell is a trademark of Michael J. Legeros

Originally posted to triangle.movies in MOVIE HELL: May 28, 1998