“Fast Charlie” is a film adaptation of Victor Gischler’s novel “Gun Monkeys,” presenting a tale of mayhem and violence in the southern United States. While the movie boasts a staggering body count, it also manages to incorporate an unlikely May-December romance. Directed by Phillip Noyce, this film marks James Caan’s final appearance on the silver screen. Although “Fast Charlie” may appeal to genre enthusiasts, it may find greater appreciation in the comfort of one’s own home.
In contrast to the revered older gangster characters commonly seen in films, the lead character Charlie Swift (portrayed by Pierce Brosnan) struggles to gain the respect he deserves from the younger generation of criminals in Louisiana. Despite their brash attitudes, Charlie’s experience and knowledge surpass that of the hot-shot punks. However, their lack of respect for Charlie, evidenced by their short-lived appearances in the film, sets the darkly seriocomic tone.
A Dream of Retirement Interrupted
Charlie harbors dreams of leaving the criminal lifestyle behind and retiring in Italy. Unfortunately, the world of crime, stealth, ruthlessness, and relentlessness has always governed his life. The adage of being “pulled back in” does not apply to Charlie since he has never truly left. However, his plans for retirement become increasingly complicated when he finds himself tangled in a plot predicament involving the widow Marcie, whose husband Charlie unknowingly killed.
The screenplay, written by Richard Wenk, weaves an implausible plot full of unlikely and extreme scenarios. As the audience navigates through the film, they have the choice to either embrace the fun of the absurdity or dismiss it as foolhardy. Director Phillip Noyce brings energy and silliness to the film’s madness, pushing the boundaries of acceptability. The filmmakers clearly dedicated significant creativity to the countless murder scenes, making them amusing and even grotesque. One can imagine the cast and crew competing to come up with the most zany murder sequences, adding to the film’s overall outlandish boisterousness.
The Reluctance to Let Go
Despite Charlie’s desire to retire, frequent cases, crises, and emergencies disrupt his plans. Additionally, his involvement with the intelligent and emotionally wounded Marcie further complicates matters. The age difference between Charlie and Marcie adds an intriguing dynamic to their relationship. Although the situation is unlikely and uncommon, it remains difficult to pass judgment on their connection. Brosnan and Baccarin, as Charlie and Marcie, respectively, deliver compelling performances that highlight their characters’ hopes, desires, and uncertainties.
“Fast Charlie” offers viewers an unfiltered look into a world of violence and chaos. While the film may not appeal to all audiences, genre enthusiasts may find enjoyment in its fast-paced storytelling. The combination of excessive body count and an unexpected romance results in a unique cinematic experience. Although the plot may be deemed preposterous, the performances of the actors lend authenticity and depth to their characters. Ultimately, “Fast Charlie” is a film that embraces its audacity and offers an intriguing exploration of unlikely connections amidst a backdrop of relentless brutality.