God Bless America
Directed by Bobcat Goldthwait
- comedy
- drama
- crime
The story
Fed up with the cruelty and stupidity of American culture, an unlikely duo goes on a killing spree, killing reality TV stars, bigots and others they find repugnant.
What it’s like
Flat, fluorescent-lit suburban interiors, drab strip malls and washed-out daylight, shot with plain, unfussy framing that lets the ugliness of ordinary American life sit in the open. The camera mostly holds still and watches, so the comedy comes from awkward pauses and deadpan exchanges rather than flashy editing, and the soundtrack is sparse, with the odd sardonic needle-drop breaking up quiet rooms. The overall vibe is bleak, sardonic and simmering, a mood that tips from dark comedy into outright rage and back again. Violence is frequent and sudden, with several shootings and bloody killings played for shock and satire rather than lingering gore; cruelty and profanity run throughout, and there is some sexual talk. Pacing is loose and conversational, with long stretches of two people talking in cars and kitchens before the next outburst. Its emotional arc follows a sad, exhausted man and a sharp, angry teenager who find a grim kinship, cynicism turning into something hot and reckless. It suits a late-night, alone viewing when you want to be provoked and laugh darkly. Not for anyone wanting gentle or cozy viewing. For viewers who enjoy black satire, bitter social critique and transgressive humour.
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