U
Turn
(1997)
Rated: R
Runtime: 2 Hours and 5 Minutes
Reviewer: Dale
Grade: FOne word: Shit.
That is really all I need to describe the horrible, teeth-gnashing cinematic experience known as "U Turn", but I suppose I shall elaborate.
First off, the plot of this film is like an extended, bad episode of "Tales From the Crypt". And it is directed by Oliver Stone at his most ham-handed and shameless. The direction of this movie is simple: there isn't any. The narrative rambles incoherently and obviously. Not only that, but it is edited in schlock, faux David Lynchian strokes. I expect this sort of thing from De Palma, but Oliver Stone? I liked "JFK" and "Platoon". But what happened here? Tell your crank dealer to stick to the good stuff, Ollie. I don't know what he sold you before you lensed this movie but you should really lay off. There is a lot of symbolism, but I don't think it's symbolic of much.
The performances are embarrassingly bad, the movie is oppressively grim but without making any points or having any theme. Billy Bob Thornton tries to interject some life into these listless and depressing proceedings, but it is no use. The film is so bad that he is caught, thrashing and screaming, in its relentless undertow.
I guess this film is supposed to have some great twist at the end, but I wouldn't know. I walked out long before that. Maybe someone can tell me the twist and then I will know it. I know that, whatever it is, it cannot be worth the torture of putting myself through "U Turn" again.