Cast
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Andrew McCarthy
as Clay
Jami Gertz
as Blair
Robert Downey Jr.
as Julian
James Spader
as Rip
Tony Bill
as Bradford Easton
Nicholas Pryor
as Benjamin Wells
Donna Mitchell
as Elaine Easton
Michael Bowen
as Hop
Sarah Buxton
as Markie
Lisanne Falk
as Patti
Michael Greene
as Robert Wells
Neith Hunter
as Alana
Afton Smith
as Kim
Brian Wimmer
as Trent
Kelly Wolf
as Lile
Crew
Director
- Marek Kanievska
Producer
- Jon Avnet
- Marvin Worth
- Jordan Kerner
Reviews
Wuchak
RELEASED IN 1987 and directed by Marek Kanievska, "Less than Zero" is a drama about a trio of rich 18 year-olds from Los Angeles. After graduation, one goes off to college (Andrew McCarthy), but returns for Christmas break wherein he finds his ex-girlfriend (Jami Gertz) and, especially, his buddy (Robert Downey Jr.) struggling with drug addiction in the Beverly Hills fast lane. James Spader plays a smug high society dealer.
This is the furthest thing from typical 80’s youth flicks, like “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “The Karate Kid,” “Valley Girl,” “Footloose” and “Can’t Buy Me Love” (where there’s, admittedly, a lot of range). “Less than Zero” has the epic, artsy style of Francis Ford Coppola films like “The Outsiders” and “Rumble Fish” (both from 1983) meshed with the chic melancholy of “Poison Ivy” (1992).
My main issue is that it takes too long to get absorbed into the characters and their story. The filmmaking is gorgeous, however, which is ironic because this is a really downbeat movie. Gertz is fine, but she never did anything for me, while McCarthy is serviceable as the main protagonist, yet rather bland in a goody-goody way. Both Downey Jr. and Spader, however, de-shine in their roles (in a good way). If you favor arty, glum movies you might like this better than me, but it’s nowhere near as effective as “Poison Ivy,” a similar artsy, gloomy flick.
The movie runs 1 hour 38 minutes and was shot in the Los Angeles area, including Malibu. WRITERS: Bret Easton Ellis (novel) and Harley Peyton (screenplay)
GRADE: C+
Feb 11, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Less Than Zero examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Marek Kanievska brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Less Than Zero took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 158 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 333 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1987, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Less Than Zero shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Baby, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Less Than Zero subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like How It Ends and Joyland explore similar territory, Less Than Zero stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 6, 1987
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $12,396,383
