Watch Mad Dog Time
- R
- 1996
- 1 hr 37 min
-
5.4 (3,716)
Mad Dog Time is a 1996 crime-comedy film directed and written by Larry Bishop. The movie boasts an incredible array of actors including Gabriel Byrne, Richard Dreyfuss, Ellen Barkin, Jeff Goldblum, Diane Lane, Burt Reynolds, and Michael J. Pollard among others. The plot is set in the late 1980s, where crime boss Vic (Gabriel Byrne) returns from a stint in a mental hospital to find that his right-hand man, Mickey Holliday (Jeff Goldblum), has been running things in his absence. The two men engage in an elaborate cat and mouse game to see who will gain control of Vic's crime empire.
Along the way, Vic reunites with his old flame, Grace (Diane Lane), and grapples with his relationship with his estranged father, a seasoned mobster named Joseph (Richard Dreyfuss). Vic also deals with the antics of other criminals, such as Jack (Burt Reynolds), a hitman who is having a tough time with his sexuality, and Ben London (Henry Silva), another crime boss who is threatened by Vic's return.
Mad Dog Time is not your average crime film. It's a dark and absurdly funny take on the genre, with a script that is equal parts witty and outrageous. The film's strength lies in its cast, who are all clearly having a blast with their over-the-top characters.
Gabriel Byrne commands the screen as Vic, with his steely intensity and quiet menace. Jeff Goldblum is equally impressive as the kooky Mickey, who spouts off bizarre non-sequiturs and flails about in madcap glee. Richard Dreyfuss, in a small but pivotal role, brings his trademark charm and charisma to Joseph.
The film is visually stunning, with a bold color palette and dynamic camera work. The soundtrack, which features classic songs like "Beyond the Sea" and "Mambo Italiano," adds to the movie's retro vibe.
However, Mad Dog Time is not without its flaws. The plot can be a bit convoluted at times, and some of the humor may not land for all viewers. Additionally, the film's portrayal of women is problematic, with female characters largely relegated to the role of decoration or objects of desire.
Despite its flaws, Mad Dog Time is a unique and entertaining film that is worth a watch for anyone who enjoys offbeat crime movies or just wants to see an amazing ensemble of actors having a blast on screen.
Mad Dog Time is a 1996 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.