Films by Joel and Ethan Coen are known for their dark, quirky sense of humor and some bizarre camera work. That's what I look forward to when I see a Coen brothers film, and I got it in abundance in "The Big Lebowski."
Jeff Bridges stars as "The Dude," the man who shares the same name with, but is NOT, the title character. He perfectly plays the role of a bowler (not professional) who may in fact be the laziest person in the world. His two friends are played by alumni of Coen films, John Goodman and Steve Buscemi. Goodman is great as the loudmouth Vietnam veteran who isn't nearly as dangerous as he thinks he is. Buscemi's role was interesting. If I'm not mistaken, every line of dialogue out of his mouth was a question. Julianne Moore was pretty cool, and more sexy here than in her role as a porn star in "Boogie Nights" (I loved "Boogie Nights," so please don't misunderstand the statement). There are a couple of interesting cameos. One that's obvious, and one that you kinda hafta look for. Knowledge of alternative music and/or 80s cheesy pop music would help, too. No, I'm not referring to "Flea." I don't think that's considered a cameo since he was on screen a few times. Besides, his name was in the opening credits. There is also a cameo by an Italian-American comedian who's a minor celebrity.
This movie is very entertaining, but perhaps a bit too long. I liked it a lot though, but if you're not a fan of the Coen brothers, this film may not be for you.
What the hell
is a "nihilist"? I gotta look up that word.