Being Thoroughly Entertained - Thanks Spike

Rating: Null/10 (13 November 1999)

In the midst of the formulaic, action adventure, star studded, mass merchandising vehicles that are the stock fare of suburban, multi-theatre complexes comes a quirky, original, fun, and funny film that won't appeal to all tastes. In fact, at the screening I attended, several people walked out halfway through, and not to get a refill on their gallon of coke and mega-bucket of popcorn. They are the poorer for their decision! This movie presents John Cusack and Cameron Diaz playing against type and for brilliant comic effect, and John Malkovich playing himself (sometimes), in a mixed up world of bizarre concepts, characters, and situations. Catherine Keener was superb as the love interest of sorts, and Charlie Sheen adds comic flair as himself in a cameo appearance. Directed by Spike Jonze of Fat Boy Slim "Praise You" video fame, we must praise him for providing welcome relief to the constant flow of mainstream, mind numbing, big screen, big sound - well you get the idea.