Zero Effect . Austin Chronicle . 02-15-99

Zero Effect

DIRECTED BY: Jake Kasdan

REVIEWED: 02-15-99

One of the most tragically overlooked and underseen films of 1998, Zero Effect is really the only decent detective movie to come along in quite awhile. DVD is the perfect place to discover the flick, along with its many charms. First is Pullman as Darryl Zero, a reclusive, ultra-paranoid, heavy amphetamine addict who also happens to be the world's greatest private eye. Pullman is clearly deep within the role here, singing to himself and twitching like a hummingbird. The only thing keeping Zero sane and on track is his faithful assistant Steve, with Ben Stiller at his deadpan funniest. Even Ryan O'Neal is good! Amazing! Director Jake Kasdan (son of Lawrence) does a remarkable job in his writing and directorial debut, but it is unclear if the dismal theatrical performance of Zero (under $2 million gross) will leave room for a second shot. The DVD features all the usual goodies in sound and screen, plus a commentary track that ranks among the most curious since Roger Ebert provided his own drivel track to Dark City. Kasdan, it seems, doesn't think people ever listen to commentary tracks, so he's encoded a secret phrase on the disc. Should you piece the phrase together and repeat it to him in person, he'll donate $5 to a charity of your choice and give you a hug. Now if you can only find his favorite bar.

--Christopher Null

Full Length Reviews
Zero Effect
Zero Effect
Zero Effect
Zero Effect
Zero Effect
Zero Effect
Zero Effect

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Zero Effect
Zero Effect

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