Film Review: "The Matador" (2005)

Pierce Brosnan stars here as a socially inept hitman who awkwardly befriends everyman Greg Kinnear in Mexico City while Kinnear is on a business trip. Much (dark) hilarity ensues as the two complete opposites decide to kill some time together. As it happens, their relationship doesn't end there, but carries on, much to the chagrin of Kinnear, reminding us all that even when we think we've gotten rid of someone, fate often intervenes.

Fans of Quentin Tarantino, "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and those who found films like "Fargo" and "Magnolia" funny will find much to like here. An example of the dialogue is as follows. Upon first meeting each other in a hotel bar, Kinnear and Brosnan are in the process of introducing themselves. Brosnan orders a Margarita. Kinnear says, "Margaritas always taste better in Mexico." Brosnan: "Yeah, margaritas and cock." Kinnear, not knowing Brosnan from Adam, recoils in horror as Brosnan apologizes for his lame attempt at breaking the ice.

At an hour and a half, this is a can't miss offering for those who enjoy salty, offbeat buddy flicks with plenty of subtle, black humour. Kinnear, as always, is excellent, and Brosnan is out of this world as the mustachioed, nervous, Hawaiian-shirt wearing, "would you like something to wash down that foot in your mouth" hitman. If you're looking for something a little more intelligent than the latest Will Ferrell or Scary Movie sequel but still want to laugh out loud the next day, this is right up your alley.

Overall rating: 8.5/10