Ben Oliver

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film

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

It was an 8% chance!
18 August 2019

The Robert Downey Jr revival that led to Iron Man. The two films could not be further apart but it’s clear to see how his easy confidence and sharp comic timing made him the best man to lead up the Marvel Universe.

Shane Black’s script blends neo-noir murder mystery with romantic comedy, and does it with great self-awareness and panache. It’s rare for something to stay funny and stay tense for its whole run time, but Kiss Kiss Bang Bang makes it look easy.

I’d always thought this was under-rated but watching it again 14 years later, especially in the context of our trip through comedy history, it’s no exaggeration to call this a stand-out film of its decade.

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