The search for meaning in an incomprehensible world is the leitmotiv of writer-director David O. Russell’s (“Spanking the Monkey,” “Three Kings”) bizarre and very funny metaphysical farce. Inspired casting, a retro-European production design and Russell’s smart incorporation/exploration of several conflicting existential philosophies combine to make “Huckabees” one of the most interesting comedies in recent memory. To be sure, there are problems — most notably, a convoluted narrative that moves in no readily discernible direction toward a resolution that many will find a bit baffling. But if you’re willing to wrap your head around the idea that this is a film that just is, you’ll no doubt appreciate the lofty intent and a host of flat-out fantastic performances.
Albert Markovski (Jason Schwartzman) is a manic environmentalist convinced that a series of coincidental meetings with a doorman hold some secret to life’s biggest secrets. To help him uncover the truth, Albert employs two “existential detectives” (Lily Tomlin and Dustin Hoffman), who follow and record his every move while offering some decidedly off-the-wall counsel. The biggest thorn in Albert’s side is Brad Stand (Jude Law), a sleazy hotshot executive for the Huckabees chain of Wal-Mart-esque superstores, who’s dating the store’s iconic spokesmodel, Dawn (Naomi Watts). The conflict between Albert and Brad makes for some high comedy, especially after an increasingly disillusioned Albert pairs up with another of the detectives’ clients — a violent petroleum-obsessed firefighter named Tommy (a hilarious Mark Wahlberg in a performance that ranks with his best, “Boogie Nights”). The angry young men soon fall under the influence of sexy French nihilist Caterine Vauban (Isabelle Huppert), setting up a final-act battle of the senses that leaves no mind unblown. (Rated R for language and a sex scene. Running time: 106 minutes)
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on October 1, 2004. Read the original PDF.