On L List of Movie Reviews

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Light Sleeper (1992)

Rate: 7
Viewed: 2/26

2/26: Paul Schrader delivers once again.

Light Sleeper is a low-key neo-noir with a strong performance by Willem Dafoe who plays a mellow version of Eric Masters. I'm often reminded of American Gigolo which is punctuated by the same ending that's obviously inspired by Pickpocket. Of course, Paul Schrader can't resist having a Travis Bickle moment of violence before then.

Willem Dafoe always has interesting scenes, but when Susan Sarandon is involved, she makes the movie worse. It's obvious that they aren't on the same level, acting-wise. Dana Delany is actually better and has a tragic death for her character. I was surprised to see her back on drugs after being adamant about going straight and staying away from former users.

I like how the excessive amount of trash everywhere in New York City serves as a metaphor. There's a lot of anxiety hovering Willem Dafoe's character, and he's desperate enough to elicit the help of a clairvoyant, hence the moody tone.

All in all, Light Sleeper works because of Willem Dafoe.

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