I watched this film in stunned silence. Dennis Hopper may have played some nasty people in the past, but he's really excelled himself here as the beast known as Paris Trout. Child murderer, rapist, wife beater, con artist... And the worst aspect of it, he doesn't think he's done anything wrong. This is a guy who stands up in a courtroom lying through his teeth, yet he is so delusional he believes he's telling the truth. There isn't a single redeeming feature about this monster, and I'm sure if he existed there would be a special place in hell reserved between Hitler and Ian Brady for his sorry carcass.
But what of the rest? Well, his wife at least has some sense (Apart from marrying the **** in the first place) and clears off early, and his lawyer actually develops a conscience during a trial for an unspeakable crime Trout has committed and leaves him high and dry too. Oh, if only this would happen in real life! Then again, pigs might fly. Paris's ex and his former attorney then fall in love (Mostly over hatred regarding Trout) and move in together, but you just KNOW this story ain't gonna have a happy ending...
Extremely well performed and cast, Hopper steals the show as the beyond redemption Paris, who seems to get sicker and more sadistic with every passing scene. Barbara Hershey is also good value as the wife who FINALLY develops a backbone, and Ed Harris deserves plaudits for portraying a lawyer who has a heart (DON'T FAINT). Beyond the initial story, there's not a lot more to be told here, and some plot elements seem a tad unnecessary (what was all that stuff about rabies at the start)? But for an acting showcase, it's admirable, and further cements Hopper's reputation for tackling some of the more horrible roles with plenty of gusto... 6/10
But what of the rest? Well, his wife at least has some sense (Apart from marrying the **** in the first place) and clears off early, and his lawyer actually develops a conscience during a trial for an unspeakable crime Trout has committed and leaves him high and dry too. Oh, if only this would happen in real life! Then again, pigs might fly. Paris's ex and his former attorney then fall in love (Mostly over hatred regarding Trout) and move in together, but you just KNOW this story ain't gonna have a happy ending...
Extremely well performed and cast, Hopper steals the show as the beyond redemption Paris, who seems to get sicker and more sadistic with every passing scene. Barbara Hershey is also good value as the wife who FINALLY develops a backbone, and Ed Harris deserves plaudits for portraying a lawyer who has a heart (DON'T FAINT). Beyond the initial story, there's not a lot more to be told here, and some plot elements seem a tad unnecessary (what was all that stuff about rabies at the start)? But for an acting showcase, it's admirable, and further cements Hopper's reputation for tackling some of the more horrible roles with plenty of gusto... 6/10