Solid B+

Rating: 8/10 (23 May 2016)

It's a fun 70's romp. I almost wish it would have spent a little more time showcasing the 70's (much in the way Zodiac 2007 did), because that is the film's biggest strength next to Crowe and Gosling. There's a few head scratching moments and the movie falters logically in a few places, but overall a fun film with good chemistry between most of the characters. Disappointing to have Keith David cast in a prominent role, but given almost nothing to say. Give the guy at least a few good lines to showcase his voice. Russell Crowe is distractingly overweight. I can see his character as being a bit pudgy, but there are some shots in this movie where you fear for his health. This review is a bit focused on the negative, which it shouldn't be. Good performances, overall good writing, fun movie.
Spoiler: There is an interesting moment in this movie where the character delivers a monologue gradually directly into the camera basically saying that the Detroit automakers do not want you to see this movie because it exposes the truth about pollution, and there is a comical moment referencing electric cars and other hints here and there regarding oil, cars, etc.. The film seemed to want to convey a subtle message about the future (our present) regarding pollution, transportation, and fossil fuels.