Miramax Films
The MatadorRating: * * * *Type: Drama/ComedyLength: 96 minMPAA: RCast: Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear, Hope Davis, Arlin MillerDirector: Richard ShepardPlaying: Grande, North Hills
With Pierce Brosnan finally stepping down from the role of James Bond, it seemed likely that the tuxedo would be shadowing his career for the rest of his life. Luckily for him, and us, he successfully sheds his previous persona in The Matador, a dark comedy written and directed by Richard Shepard.
The story revolves around two different men who meet late one night at a hotel bar in Mexico. It is the kind of lonely setting that inspires truthful, spiritual conversations between total strangers and brings about films like Lost in Translation.
The two men are Julian (Brosnan), an aging Don Juan career hitman in town to finish an assignment, and Danny (Greg Kinnear), a suburbanite businessman in town to close a major deal. Julian is grimy, obscene and constantly hung over. Danny is an overgrown Boy Scout, honest and scrupulous, and married to his high school sweetheart, Bean (Hope Davis). The two form an unlikely bond.
Danny is, at first, intrigued by the enigmatic Julian, but is soon horrified when Julian asks him for help on his next job. Danny refuses and promises to never see Julian again; however, as Julian proceeds with his job, it becomes clear that he has lost his edge and once again seeks the help of Danny.
The Matador is a movie of friendship with delicious moments of dark comedy and thriller elements thrown into the mix. The entire affair could come apart if the script was not capable or if the actors were not up to the task. Richard Shepard’s script often draws a fine line between comedy and tragedy, but he keeps the film character-driven. The picture has a certain level of silliness, but the chemistry between Brosnan and Kinnear adds an unexpected bit of sincerity and warmth that transcends the trappings of a meager film.
Brosnan’s performance as Julian is one of the most memorable performances of the year. The moment he shows up on screen, the audience forgets he was ever James Bond. He’s unshaven, dirty and yet a joy to watch. It takes a truly talented performer to create a character that is both simultaneously charismatic and repulsive.
The Matador begins as a dark comic thriller, but results in an honest and sincere film that explores the true nature of friendship and people. With solid, award-worthy performances, great chemistry between the cast and a sharp script, The Matador emerges as a truly unique film.