I really wanted to like this film, but it's definitely not in the same league as "Fargo" (as someone here mentioned) nor is it deep (as someone else mentioned). The film tries hard -- and does have some great jokes -- but it ambles along filled with plot holes and poorly thought-out scenes that would be better off left on the cutting room floor. That it doesn't know whether to take itself seriously or be a flat-out comedy isn't such a bad thing -- nothing wrong with breaking conventions -- but it doesn't work here because there's no reason for it, it's just an annoyance. However, that said, it's worth it to see the film just to watch Brando in one of his few recent roles as a lead actor. In fact, it's worth it just to see him get his head stuck in the toilet in one scene and belt out lines like "I want you to shut every hole in your body right now." He's playing a great character in "the Swede" -- sort of a cross between Dr. Moreau in "Island of Dr. Moreau" and the oil baron in "The Formula" -- a ruthless jail warden with a tattoo that reads "Jesus Saves" on the back of his head. I just wish his character had been fleshed out more -- this could be his own fault; he's not exactly out to prove anything anymore as an actor. The film tends to focus more on Charlie Sheen, who does a fine job, but whose character is not quite what you would call quirky. The film would have worked much better if all the characters had been as odd as the Swede and Larry, played to perfection by Thomas Haden Church. Worth a look for Brando buffs, but I rate it a 5 overall. I probably would have upped it to 6 if it weren't for the completely stupid conclusion.
Review of Free Money
