Buckle up for an acid freakout in Terry Gilliam’s adaptation of FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS. Raoul Duke, an eccentric journalist with exquisite taste in clothing, is assigned to cover a motorcycle race in Las Vegas. Before departing Los Angeles and heading out into the sweltering Nevada desert, he decides to really make the trip count...by tripping the entire duration of the journey. Who better to tag along than Dr. Gonzo, Duke’s screwy lawyer who will serve no purpose besides preventing the mission from being accomplished? The drive to their destination is an experience in itself; the guys are littered with crippling paranoia of imaginary creatures and fear of being ratted out to the police by a panic-stricken hitchhiker. The Vegas Strip is an intensified extension of their commute which instantly becomes a playground for their drug-fueled antics. Copious amounts of hallucinogenics are ingested while dodging giant bats, world war, and an ever-increasing hotel bill before Duke can finally tackle his article.
FEAR AND LOATHING is a film to indulge in with a clear mind and a relaxed body. On the surface, if watched while distracted, the movie will feel like an overwhelming disarray of words and pictures. Prior to viewing, prepare to be sent into a frenzy so that you can swallow each and every bite of madness with as much ease as possible. Depp and del Toro depict junkies so insanely well, you will be convinced you’re trapped in the same Hellish nightmare of psychosis they can’t seem to escape at times. The wild world of Las Vegas is beautifully distorted to implement their delirious perspectives, complete with lizard people and skewed faces against flashy backdrops. Otherworldly visions are sprinkled with a mix of nonsensical rambling and a touch of optimism, which aids in the development of empathy towards Duke to keep you hanging on. Gilliam’s work is a psychedelic masterpiece which highlights the importance of the journey, not the destination. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy an LSD trip without actually wrecking your brain.
Rating: 8/10
Director: Terry Gilliam [MONTY PYTHON & THE HOLY GRAIL, TIDELAND]
Cast: Johnny Depp, Benicio del Toro, Tobey Maguire
Country: USA
