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2000
The Big Kahuna
1/2
Plot: Three salesman are staying in a hotel in Wichita in hopes of finding "the big kahuna," a big time corporate figure who may have interest in their industrial lubricant company.  The salesman include an emotional jester Larry (Kevin Spacey), a wise, grizzled Phil (Danny DeVito), and an idealistic young man Bob (Peter Facinelli).  The three are hosting a party in a convention where the big kahuna arrives without any of the salesman's knowledge because he uses a different name tag.  Bob unknowingly makes contact with the big kahuna when he goes to get a drink as he is the bartender for the night.  Bob is then invited to the kahuna's party. 
Rating: Very Good

Distributor: Lions Gate Films
Rating: R
Release Date: April 28th, 2000 (limited)
Director: John Swanbeck
Genre: Drama/Comedy
Cast: Kevin Spacey, Danny DeVito, Peter Facinelli
Critique:  This seemingly simple film based in one room with three actors was shot in 16 days.  It is based on a stage play, and so it is not surprising there aren't many different scenes.  (Hey, Hitchcock filmed his 54' masterpiece Dial M For Murder, with Ray Milland, Grace Kelly in basically one room too!)  Once you get over the initial feeling of claustrophobia you will probably find this movie thoroughly enjoyable as I did.  It supplies a plethora of wisdom about several different subjects including apologies, redeeming yourself, friendship, and even the supernatural.  It prooves to be quite an intellectual flick.  Additionally, as you are pulled along for the ride don't be surprised if you find some of the lines to be very funny, and witty.  If you always keep an eye out for DeVito's expressions you will be pleasantly rewarded.
      The acting is all around excellent and we expect nothing less from two time Oscar winner Spacey and acclaimed actor DeVito.  The story is quite an emotional roller coaster and without solid acting the picture could have been a flop.  Swanbeck delivers a good direction job even if it wasn't extraordinarily complicated.
    This deep film probes into the mind of humans, human nature and reactions.  It spares no feelings in its quiet, but very on the ball storyline.  Consequently, you get a real furfilling feeling as the ending credits scroll down the screen.  'Kahuna' is a real find, it is concise, sharp and very intelligent.  Go see it!

                Review by Supernothingman (ES)
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