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Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

  • 2005
  • R
  • 1h 43m
IMDb RATING
7.5/10
244K
YOUR RATING
POPULARITY
1,928
310
Val Kilmer, Robert Downey Jr., and Michelle Monaghan in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
Trailer for Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Play trailer2:24
10 Videos
99+ Photos
Bumbling DetectiveDark ComedySatireComedyCrimeMysteryThriller

After being mistaken for an actor, a New York thief is sent to Hollywood to train under a private eye for a potential movie role, but the duo are thrown together with a struggling actress in... Read allAfter being mistaken for an actor, a New York thief is sent to Hollywood to train under a private eye for a potential movie role, but the duo are thrown together with a struggling actress into a murder mystery.After being mistaken for an actor, a New York thief is sent to Hollywood to train under a private eye for a potential movie role, but the duo are thrown together with a struggling actress into a murder mystery.

  • Director
    • Shane Black
  • Writers
    • Brett Halliday
    • Shane Black
  • Stars
    • Robert Downey Jr.
    • Val Kilmer
    • Michelle Monaghan
  • See production info at IMDbPro
  • IMDb RATING
    7.5/10
    244K
    YOUR RATING
    POPULARITY
    1,928
    310
    • Director
      • Shane Black
    • Writers
      • Brett Halliday
      • Shane Black
    • Stars
      • Robert Downey Jr.
      • Val Kilmer
      • Michelle Monaghan
    • 439User reviews
    • 218Critic reviews
    • 73Metascore
  • See production info at IMDbPro
    • Awards
      • 5 wins & 16 nominations total

    Videos10

    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Trailer 2:24
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang
    Trailer 0:31
    Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang
    Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang
    Trailer 0:31
    Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang
    Not-So-Family-Friendly Holiday Movies
    Clip 2:35
    Not-So-Family-Friendly Holiday Movies
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Clip 0:46
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Clip 0:45
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Scene: What Are You Doing?
    Clip 0:44
    Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Scene: What Are You Doing?

    Photos266

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    Top cast57

    Edit
    Robert Downey Jr.
    Robert Downey Jr.
    • Harry Lockhart
    Val Kilmer
    Val Kilmer
    • Gay Perry
    Michelle Monaghan
    Michelle Monaghan
    • Harmony Faith Lane
    Corbin Bernsen
    Corbin Bernsen
    • Harlan Dexter
    Dash Mihok
    Dash Mihok
    • Mr. Frying Pan
    Larry Miller
    Larry Miller
    • Dabney Shaw
    Rockmond Dunbar
    Rockmond Dunbar
    • Mr. Fire
    Shannyn Sossamon
    Shannyn Sossamon
    • Pink Hair Girl
    Angela Lindvall
    Angela Lindvall
    • Flicka
    Indio Falconer Downey
    Indio Falconer Downey
    • Harry Lockhart - Age 9
    Ariel Winter
    Ariel Winter
    • Harmony Faith Lane - Age 7
    Duane Carnahan
    • Chainsaw Kid
    Josh Richman
    • Richie
    Martha Hackett
    Martha Hackett
    • Pistol Woman
    Nancy Fish
    Nancy Fish
    • N.Y. Casting Woman
    Bill McAdams Jr.
    Bill McAdams Jr.
    • N.Y. Cop
    Tanja Reichert
    Tanja Reichert
    • B-Movie Actress
    Jake McKinnon
    Jake McKinnon
    • Creature
    • Director
      • Shane Black
    • Writers
      • Brett Halliday
      • Shane Black
    • All cast & crew
    • Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

    User reviews439

    7.5243.9K
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    Featured reviews

    7Flagrant-Baronessa

    "I'm retired. I invented dice. What do you do?"

    A lucky mistake shifts out-of-luck criminal Harry Lockhart (Robert Downey Jr) from the gritty streets to glossy showbiz in L.A, landing him a part in an upcoming film. Another mistake then shifts him from actor to private detective, and this is where Val Kilmer comes in and things start to go wrong, more wrong and unbelievably wrong until they've snowballed into an enjoyable detective mess -- all to impress failed actress Harmony (Next big thing: Michelle Monaghan).

    Shane Black's directorial debut 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang' is a comic film noir. Even in the dazzling opening credits using a montage of contrasts of red, black and white, it is evident that this is no run-of-the-mill crime story, but a viciously entertaining ride from scene 01. What makes it so special is that it mixes equal doses of humour and crime like a $15,000,000 blender, pouring out a balanced end product and glazing it with a clever narrative coating by Robert Downey Jr. Black also sprinkles some rapid-fire dialogue onto his product, which is facilitated by the comedic chemistry between Downey and Kilmer. Some of the lines, gags and images are truly laugh-out-loud worthy. Everything else is nice, but forgettable.

    Its only problem, as far as I can see it, is its paper-thin plot. It does not seem believable; it is complex, dizzying and not nearly as involving as it would like to be. So back to formula on that one, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang would be a near-perfect comedy-thriller.

    7.5/10
    10almonetts

    Shrewdly written, expertly delivered comic film-noir

    Directed and co-written by Shane Black; based on a novel, "Bodies Are Where You Find Them" written by Brett Halliday; and starring Robert Downey Jnr, Val Kilmer and Michelle Monaghan.

    A terrific opening credit sequence easily sets up the audacity and chagrin of the film for an appreciative audience. In essence, these are the reasons why you need to see this movie: the razor sharp wit, shockingly fast-paced and hysterical dialogue, pulp-fiction-esquire vibe, its pure cheesiness and the cynicism of a beat up old paperback detective novel.

    Got you yet? Alright, maybe an explanation of the seemingly simple plot is warranted. It begins with a ridiculously funny set up resulting in Downey's character being paired up with Kilmer to observe the latter in his job as a private detective. They hook up with a down-on-her luck actress who brings a case for the sleuths. This synopsis constitutes gross misrepresentation on my part as things get remarkably complex. How so? Well, even the lead the character (who also is purposefully pathetic as narrator) takes time out within the movie to remember where he is in telling the story. There are even snippets of dialogue where the characters attempt to fill in the gaps or actually remind themselves of what has happened thus far in the movie.

    Downey, Kilmer and Monaghan are all caricatures drawn from popular references of literature, movies and art. All however, are larger than life, exhibit great chemistry and for a movie buff, it is heaven to witness the self referential exercises and hear the narrator shred every narrating convention applicable. Downey's performance is remarkable (neurotic, comic, vulnerable and charming). I have never seen Kilmer in such a well-defined, uproarious piece of work. Monaghan is also integral to the trio and shines exuding a brash, fighting and sexy appeal. She brought back fond memories of early Kathleen Turner and Rene Russo. The fact that her look screams Renee Zellweger, is not a bad thing either.

    Black became famous in the 1980s for writing the hit buddy movies: Lethal Weapon, The Last Boy Scout and The Long Kiss Goodnight. As a first time director, he does well keeping the frenetic pace and allowing the audience to catch up only to get lost time and time again. The style is so disarmingly effective, that at times I shook my head in confusion or found my hands against my mouth, agape in shock. I also think that in creating such a brilliant script that Black may have blacklisted himself in Hollywood for mirroring its supposed fame and glamor and exposing its not too pretty side. His one-liners and connected sub-plots are not typical and Kilmer and Downey make magic with their banter and clinical delivery.

    All the ingredients of a pulp-noir novella can be found, even employing a structure of chapter-type headings within the movie. Parallel story lines unfold and given plot assumptions are turned over, always with achingly funny results. Even the clichés are clever e.g. a tough guy predictably crashes through a glass table, or body after body turns up, to haunt the characters.

    I strongly recommend the movie, given the talent of Downey and Kilmer. Downey should be honored with a Lead Actor Oscar nomination; while Kilmer deserves a Supporting Actor nod. It thrilled me to see them both in their element, as I was on the verge of disavowing them as marquee/box-office draws. The screenplay should also attract Oscar consideration.

    One of the year's best films and one of those rare movies where you'll consistently find something new to laugh at, when viewed each of a dozen times.
    7The_Void

    Not entirely successful, but nevertheless an interesting film

    I'm not sure whether or not I like this film. On the one hand, I enjoyed watching it and I respect the fact that it's tried to be a little different; but on the other hand, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang reminds me too much of the guy at the buffet who fills his plate and doesn't end up eating it all. The film is a comedy, a thriller, a murder mystery, an action flick; a character study and a crime film, all rolled into one. It would be hard for any film to take this cocktail and spin it into a coherent piece, but to it's credit; Kiss Kiss Bang Bang almost succeeds; but cracks begin to show where the story is concerned, as the film clearly makes the conglomeration of genres it's central point, and it's too easy to get confused. The film is based on a collection of stories by Brett Halliday, and it follows a petty thief who stumbles into the top flight of Hollywood by chance, and soon finds himself part of a murder investigation after witnessing a car speeding into a lake. The investigation includes a gay detective named 'Gay Perry', and his former childhood sweetheart, Harmony.

    The cast is one of the film's main assets. Director Shane Black is always happy to show off his main star, who has finally made his way back into 'A' class movies after some...errr...time out. Downey is a talented actor, and it's through him that the film gains most of its vitality. He is joined by Val Kilmer, who is a lot better than I thought he would be in the role of the gay detective. Michelle Monaghan rounds off the cast, and holds her own against the two bigger name male leads. Shane Black is most famous for his action films, including credits for the Lethal Weapon series and Arnie vehicle; The Last Action Hero, but like the film's main lead; Black has had some time off recently, and this film marks his comeback. Some people were relieved to see the Predator co-star back in action...I cant say I share the sentiment, but all in all; I'm glad that he has finally made his directorial debut with this film. On the whole, this will appeal to people who like their films to be quirky and offbeat. The mock-noir style bodes well with Downey's witty performance, and the film is constantly entertaining; even if it doesn't always hit the mark dead on.
    rossperry-18019

    Underrated dark comedy from a master.

    Shane Black is a good writer. Judging by Kiss Kiss Bang bang he is also a fantastic director. This dark comedy is an incredibly underrated comedy and showcases the powerhouse talent of Val Kilmer, Robert Downey Jr. and Shane Black. Laden with one liners and throwaway jokes Kiss Kiss Bang bang should be re watched to get everything in, for only one viewing is not enough. Perhaps this is the reason the film underperformed at the box office. If you are a fan of Robert Downey Jr. you owe it to yourself to watch this film.
    bob the moo

    Funny, stylish, enjoyable self-aware and delivered by a great combination of Downey and Kilmer

    Having stumbled into a casting session, petty thief Harry Lockhart has found himself flown to LA to try out for the lead in a major film. This also involves parties, at one of which he meets "Gay" Perry, a PI who acts as an adviser on such movies. When Harry joins Perry on a stake-out to learn the job they wind up balls-deep in mystery when they recover a dead body from the trunk of a dumped car. They leave the body and go their separate ways, but the body then turns up in Harry's bathroom and Perry realises that it is a setup. Coincidentally Harry's childhood sweetheart (Harmony) has her younger sister turn up in LA before committing suicide. She turns to Harry for help who, in a fit of puppy love, tells her he is a private detective. But with so many bodies all at once, are the cases as separate as they first appear?

    Having spent a bit of time in the wilderness since his glory days, Shane Black returned to the screens properly as writer and director with an effective film that works surprisingly well in the genre he dominates while also poking fun at it. The plot is a real strength as it updates the potboilers of the 1940's with a complex string of "unrelated" murders that build together to a relatively satisfying conclusion. Sure it is full of holes at points and lacks some logic in the way it jumps around but it flows really well. However what really makes the film work is the post-ironic and fun delivery throughout. To some viewers I'm sure that it will be a bit too knowing but for me it was tremendously self-effacing fun. This is never done to the detriment of the narrative although some people may be disappointed that it takes precedence over traditional action (which it is quite light on).

    Black does well with this though and his dialogue is full of great one-liners (as I expected) but also a lot of knowing references to the genre and the clichés that he helped create (which I didn't expect). What was pretty surprising was how well it all worked together. As director he has injected a lot of style into the film and is well supported by really cool opening credits, some wicked black humour and a strong soundtrack. Of course it wouldn't have worked without a cast that "got" what he was doing and fortunately his casting director got him two great leads. Downey Jr is brilliant. His narration is very natural and convincing and he really brings out the humour in his lines. In the rest of the film he is just as strong and is really fun. Kilmer is equally as good albeit in a smaller role; he is smart, tough and yet able to work well with his genre-busting character. They both work really well together and their chemistry produces a real energy. The support cast are good but not as strong. Monaghan is sexy but has to carry a lot of the narrative; Bernsen is merely a face; Miller has a small turn but generally everyone is in the shadown of Kilmer, Downey and Black.

    Overall this is not a perfect film and those that don't like Black or the genre will probably not get it but it is still a lot of fun. Never taking itself seriously is a strong point and Black's writing is sharp and funny while his direction is stylish and cool. Downey Jr and Kilmer are both very strong and take to the material really well, bringing out plenty of energy and laughs. A really fun film that is affectionately mocking towards the genre.

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    Storyline

    Edit

    Did you know

    Edit
    • Trivia
      As a show of support for Robert Downey Jr.'s recovery from alcohol and drugs, Val Kilmer refused to drink during the entire production.
    • Goofs
      The microsurgery needed to reattach Harry's finger is too complicated and extensive for an emergency room visit; it likely would require a hospital stay of days, if not weeks.
    • Quotes

      Perry: My $2000 ceramic Vektor my mother got me as a special gift. You threw in the lake next to the car. What happens when they drag the lake? You think they'll find my pistol. Jesus. Look up "idiot" in the dictionary. You know what you'll find?

      Harry: A picture of me?

      Perry: No! The definition of the word idiot, which you fucking are!

    • Crazy credits
      At the end of the movie, Val Kilmer says not to leave, to stay and watch the credits, and if you're wondering who the Best Boy is, he's someone's nephew. (The actual Best Boy credit is Jack Bauer.)
    • Connections
      Featured in Great Movie Mistakes 2: The Sequel (2011)
    • Soundtracks
      Sleigh Ride
      Written by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish (uncredited)

      Performed by Al Caiola & Riz Ortolani

      Courtesy of EMI Records

      Under License from EMI Film & Television Music

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    FAQ21

    • How long is Kiss Kiss Bang Bang?Powered by Alexa
    • What is Kiss Kiss Bang Bang about?

    Details

    Edit
    • Release date
      • November 11, 2005 (United States)
    • Country of origin
      • United States
    • Official sites
      • Warner Bros. (Belgium)
      • Warner Bros. (Canada)
    • Language
      • English
    • Also known as
      • Entre besos y tiros
    • Filming locations
      • Monumental sculpture "Double Ascension" 1973 Herbert Bayer 505 South Flower St, Los Angeles, California USA(shown through window of Standard Hotel)
    • Production companies
      • Warner Bros.
      • Silver Pictures
    • See more company credits at IMDbPro

    Box office

    Edit
    • Budget
      • $15,000,000 (estimated)
    • Gross US & Canada
      • $4,243,756
    • Opening weekend US & Canada
      • $180,660
      • Oct 23, 2005
    • Gross worldwide
      • $15,785,458
    See detailed box office info on IMDbPro

    Tech specs

    Edit
    • Runtime
      1 hour 43 minutes
    • Color
      • Color
    • Sound mix
      • DTS
      • Dolby Digital
      • SDDS
    • Aspect ratio
      • 2.39 : 1

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