Critics often chastise those who dwell in the past, claiming they are not focused enough on the present. However, some individuals find themselves living in the past due to circumstances beyond their control. The protagonist of A Gun, a Car, a Blonde, a 1997 drama directed by Stefani Ames, falls into this category. Richard (played by Jim Metzler) is a wealthy man who owns a vast house in Los Angeles, but his life is forever altered by spinal cancer, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Richard spends his days in the confines of his home, consumed by pain, and cared for by Peep (played by Kay Lenz), his sister motivated more by inheritance than genuine affection for her brother. Richard finds solace in 1940s detective films and the enigmatic blonde (played by Amanda Thompson) who resides in the neighboring house. When Richard's best friend Duncan (played by John Ritter), an advocate of New Age philosophy, suggests that he create a fantasy world to escape his harsh reality, Richard embarks on a journey as Rick Stone, a hard-boiled private investigator in 1950s Los Angeles. As the lines between reality and fantasy blur, events in Richard's real life begin to mirror those in his imagination.
A Gun, a Car, a Blonde was created on a modest budget with a target audience associated with independent films in mind. The film boasts a cast of notable names such as John Ritter, Kay Lenz, and Billy Bob Thornton, but it is Andrea Thompson's captivating performance that steals the show, particularly for male viewers. Despite its shortcomings, A Gun, a Car, a Blonde manages to captivate audiences through its exceptional acting and engaging dialogue. While the film may not appeal to everyone, it is recommended for viewers who appreciate a more unconventional form of entertainment.
Rating: 5/10 (++)
(Note: This review was originally posted on Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on June 23, 2004)
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