release year: 1997
genre: dark comedy
viewing setting: theater, 4/18/97 & 6/20/97; home DVD, 6/22/01
what I expected: I wasn't sure
what I got: the ultimate way to come back for your high school reunion
synopsis: Martin Blank, assassin extraordinaire, mixes business with pleasure when he heads back to his hometown for the 10-year high school reunion. Old friends and foes mix with new ones as he tries to tie up some long-standing loose ends, survive the idiocy of his reunion, and fulfill his latest contract.
impressions: I was pleasantly surprised - this movie was funny and violent! It's also a common fantasy: coming back as something much superior to what you were when you left. More, following 6/22/01 viewing: This is actually a really funny movie with its quips, e.g. Cusack ragging on former classmates who are still living 10 years in the past. There's also a redemption/starting-over theme going on here. The point is, it's entertaining, yet not sappy - which I really, really like.
acting: John Cusack seldom disappoints, and this was a fine role for him. His facial expressions and pithy comments were perfect for this role. Minnie Driver, as his old girlfriend, does a good job too, plus she was actually attractive here, which is saying a lot since I don't find her attractive.
quote: "It is I...Sidney Feldman!" (said by other assassin as he infiltrates the reunion)
final word: A winner. If you enjoy your comedies with a bit of seriousness thrown in, you'll like this one.
rating: B