Dude, let's go logjammin'

Rating: 8/10 (28 August 2001)

Greetings again from the darkness. I have fought this for quite some time, but must now give it up for the greatness that is ... the Coen Brothers. Bad pub made me stay away from Lebowski on its theatrical release, and am just now getting around to it. What a gem! Truly brilliant casting and the Coen's now customary bizarre dialog make this one something special. Who, but the Coens, would cast Steve Buscemi as a former surfer or Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) as a nihilist? Yes, we expect perfection from Jeff Bridges every time - here he delivers. Is he a slacker or just a decent guy who doesn't wish his rug soiled? Bridges perfectly captures the spirit of the dude. Goodman is his usual over-the-top self, only moreso. His dialog seems at time pulled straight from "Casino", if you f** know what I f** mean. The beautiful Julianne Moore seems a bit disinterested in her role until her wonderful scene for improving conception. Philip Seymour Hoffman again shows why he is absolutely the best young character actor working today. Tara Reid ("Cruel Intentions" and "American Pie") has a brief yet effective role as teh trophy wife with confusing intentions. David Huddleston steals his scenes for the first time since "Blazing Saddles" and Coen regular, John Turturro is terrifically offbeat as Jesus the wonder bowler. Sam Elliot lends a touch of class as the stranger, and don't miss Aimee Mann ('til Tuesday) and Ben Gazarra. Another aspect that we have come to expect in Coen movies is a wonderful soundtrack. Lebowski provides us with Dylan and Costello along with the wonderful work of Carter Burwell. This movie begs for repeat viewings, but do brace yourself for the boundary pushing.