I bought this on DVD a little while ago because it's one of those memorable and highly-regarded films. After digging it out last week and giving it another watch I thought I'd review it for those who haven't seen it; whilst it's a bit dated it's still a worth-while watch and it should be on the 'seen it' list of movie lovers.

True Romance introduces us to two central characters, Clarence & Alabama. He's just a guy and she's just a prostitute, but the unlikely pair come together and quickly get married. It's a bit of a whirlwind get-together and I don't think many relationships really function like theirs do, but as we learn more about the characters we learn about their motivations.

Having fallen head over heels in love with Alabama, Clarence is determined to get her things back from her ruthless ex, a big time gangster pimp played by Gary Oldman. Things don't go as expected; after a fight ensues and all hell breaks loose, Clarence does leave with a suitcase, but it doesn't contain his wife's things. Instead, he returns home to find it stashed with a load of coke.

The rest of the film shows us what happens when two newlyweds try to sell their stash to make a quick fortune and run away together whilst being hunted down by gangsters who want to reclaim their property. With the help of a friend, Dick (played by Michael Rapaport) it seems that they may just make it, but Dick's stoner friend, Floyd (Brad Pitt) puts his foot in it and may just jeopardise the whole thing.

For what seems at times to be an average or low budget film, the cast is pretty impressive. Top names include: Christian Slater (Clarence), Patricia Arquette (Alabama), Val Kilmer (Mentor), Samuel L Jackson (Big Don), Brad Pitt (Floyd), Gary Oldman (Drexl), Dennis Hopper (Clifford, Clarence's father), Christopher Walken (the slick, mean Vincenzo Coccotti who's hunting down the newlyweds), Conchata Ferrell (Mary Louise), Michael Rapaport (Dick, Clarences friend) and James Gandolfini (Virgil) amongst others.

Whilst it may not be an entirely believable premise, the direction and acting in this film make it watchable and believable enough to really enjoy. With regards to the direction, Quentin Tarantino & Roger Avary were responsible (who also directed Top Gun I believe), so they know what they're doing and how to do it well. The characters have some depth and are engaging, and they add a sense of high quality to the flick. The music is also noteworthy because it's memorable, as are some key scenes. I think I'd classify this as falling into a drama thriller come light comedy in places, but it's definitely a cult classic that will be remembered by some, despite it not necessarily being that well-known within the mainstream. To me, this is a quietly confident film that's entertaining and enjoyable, has some great characters and actors, and maintains a high energy pace that keeps you watching it with ease.


DVD released 2000, film made 1993.
Rated certificate 18, running time 120 minutes.
Selling on Amazon for £4.42