Natural Born Killers [VHS]

Oliver Stones controversial Natural Born Killers was developed from a script by Quentin Tarantino although Tarantino was unhappy with the artisitic direction Stone chose and distanced himself from the project.

The movie follows murderous lovers, Mickey and Mallory Knox as they carve a bloody path across America and become media darlings in the process. The film looks like an acid trip and flits between colour, black & white and animation, cut with violent imagery of death and destruction. Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis are on fine form as the stone cold psychopaths and are supported by Robert Downey Jr playing the deplorable journalist Wayne Gale and Tommy Lee Jones as a highly strung prison warden.

The films relentless violence and glorification of Mickey and Mallory's antics recieved a lot of criticism and the film remained banned for 8 years. I think the film is misunderstood. Stone is trying to comment on the media obsession with violence and crime. It's like an exaggerated OJ simpson trial which descended into a shambling media circus where the severity of the crimes and victims were completely forgotten. This is exactly what happens in Natural Born Killers only they just happened to kill 52 people for kicks.

Natural Born Killers is a difficult watch as the camera work and style are so shaky but I think this represents the insanity of Mickeys mind. I can't recommend this movie highly enough, the final act where the pair are in prison is absolutely brilliant. The special edition features the notorious court room scene with Ashley Judd and the severed head on a stick bit from the prison riot.

Like This? Try: Badlands

"Natural Born Killers" is Oliver Stone's "take-no-prisoners" assault on the media that is cinematic eye-candy to the teeth. It's an uneasy satire to watch, but it is an extremely effective film that is both thrilling and funny. Many people loath this movie, as it is not an easy one to take. I feel there's a lot of ugly truths hidden within, and those truths aren't very easy to accept for most. For those who are aware of how manipulative and hypocritical the media world can be are in for one crazy and unforgiving ride that has no limits.

Mickey and Mallory Knox may appear to be your ordinary couple, but they aren't. In fact, the two are notorious serial killers who love to get their adrenaline pumping by destroying the lives of others. The media has pretty much made the villainous duo heroes to the public, as they can't get enough of them. They headline every single news program with absolute pride. As the two continue their bloody rampage through the states, the public is watching every step of the way with bloodshot eyes.

The structure of the film is usually what turns people off from it, but I thought it was all executed perfectly. It doesn't follow your basic plot structure in the same way most films do. We're presented with the characters, the conflict, resolution, etc.--but it's pieced together in random spots as if you were surfing through different channels on the TV. This is extremely effective for what Stone is trying to convey. It's a disturbing film because it actually sheds light on something most people don't want to fess up to, and that is the glorification of criminals and violence. I found it to be a breath-taking satire, as well as an outstanding film all together.

One of the many strong points that this film has is the amazing acting from the superb cast. Woody Harrelson is savagely entertaining as the notorious "Mickey," while Juliette Lewis is beautiful and deadly. Robert Downey Jr. is a complete joy to watch as he partakes in the role of the obsessive talk-show host who is only concerned with ratings (now, who does he remind you of?). It also must be said that Tommy Lee Jones gives one of his funniest performances ever--the expressions on his face are absolutely priceless.

This particular DVD version of the movie contains a bunch of goodies for DVD fanatics. One of the main features is that this is the "Director's Cut." While it's not much longer than the original theatrical version, certain extended shots and angles deemed "controversial" have been restored in this version. The picture and sound quality is really great and does the film the justice that it deserves. Extras that can be found on the DVD include the director's commentary, deleted scenes, an alternative ending, and cast and crew interviews. Not a bad package, if you ask me.

"Natural Born Killers" is an absolute cinematic treat to film buffs. While it's most likely not to be welcomed with open-arms by most, it certainly is entertaining to those who love it. It's not your ordinary movie, that much is for sure. If you're looking for a risk-taking satire that defies all of the rules and boundaries, this might be the choice for you. It's a unique experience that never loses its appeal or originality. -Michael Crane

Natural born killers is a film that is needs an open mind and an understanding that films can have a hidden message or else this film will pass you by and you will never see the brilliance of it,it appears to me that many have missed the point.

The film is an ode to americas glorified fascination with the macabre and how serial killers for example can gain legendary status and thats because of the media.

Granted the films violent scenes are excessive but in understanding the reason for that one understands that people embrace these acts in what they read,what they watch and so forth in the news,america is a country that reigns in violence and murder,this film details with two killers who you cant help but love,but are the characters played by robert downey junior(the journalist) or tommy lee jones(the warden) any better,thats what you need to decide.

The content of the film is one of a couple,mickey and mallory,who go on a killing spree across america and how their fanbase grows as the media gives them iconic status,certainly even i as a viewer warm to them,sense of irony im sure.

This is a film that is more of a satire and is twisted in more ways than one and with 3000 edits involved(most films have 700) it is clear that there is alot going here,you shouldnt miss this.