Freaky Deaky (2012) User Reviews

Based on Elmore Leondard's novel. Directed by Walter Matthew's son.

[ritera1 · 7/10 · 28 July 2022]

1974. Various colorful characters who are trying to do this and that. Millions of dollars hang in the balance. Sticks of dynomite.

Listless indulgence for a variety of C-list actors. Nothing really urgent. Amusing. About 92% the feel of 1974. Modern buildings in the background. Modern light switches, blinds, hair, some clothes.

An Honest Review

[generationofswine · 7/10 · 27 December 2017]

Well, this movie was poorly made. It really was, which is probably why we didn't see it anywhere and I had to actively track it down.

But, a big part of it is likely the budget. It stinks of low budget and you can't really make an ultra low budget period flick and have actually turn out well.

But, 7 of 10 stars because it is unique. The story is original, and that is probably why it had such a low budget feel to it, but that doesn't really matter at all.

You still have an Elmore Leonard movie, which means you still have characters you haven't really encountered in stories before and a plot that you haven't really seen before all in a genre--crime--that is over done and paint-by-numbers.

So, watch it, if nothing more than you are getting a real story, a fresh story, an Elmore Leonard story and he is always worth it...because without him you get more of the same old crap on repeat.

It's a story you probably haven't encountered before and that is always worth a watching.

Explosive or tame?

[kosmasp · 6/10 · 21 March 2014]

Watching movies without any previous knowledge of them is how I experience them. Sometimes I might know the book, graphic novel or whatever source it is based on. In this case, I had no idea there was a book, therefor cannot compare it to it whatsoever. From reading from other sources it seems to be a good interpretation of it. I can only say that it has a nice vibe to it (guess the book had the same thing going on then).

Michael Jai White might seem to have the weakest character at first, but seems to have more going on (also acting wise) than some of the others. Everyone is having fun though and it's tough to really dislike the movie, I think. It's good little fun, even for those who didn't know what a "Freaky Deaky" is ...

fan of Christian slaters

[steeledanton · 7/10 · 8 March 2014]

in my opinion its a letdown. Its filmed and goes at a pretty quick pace, lots of intimacy between characters, whereas the story line involves a couple of rich brothers and a few jealous individuals going out of their way to get a piece of the money for themselves. over all I found it disappointing with plot twists and lack of asking for help in a situation seemingly involving death threats and more. damnit, ten lines necessary? well I don't think that this movie is any different from BE COOL or Get SHORTY, and as a matter of fact, probably better. its nice to see the colors and cast involved in something that actually seems like it was easily done, like maybe finished filming in a month or something,

Amateurish and spot off on almost everything

[giallopudding · 2/10 · 1 June 2013]

I wanted to like this film. I love Elmore Leonard novels, and loved Get Shorty, 52 Pickup, Get Straight and Jackie Brown (Rum Punch). In the hands of a master like Tarantino, Elmore Leonard's complex and fast-paced plots, with numerous characters throwing witty street banter around, really shine.

Unfortunately, Charles Mattheau isn't up to the task, and characters are miscast, pacing is awful, even the score is wrong in so many places. This film often comes off as a bad TV tongue-in-cheek crime show, complete with dramatic musical flourishes when the camera zooms in on the sexy legs of actresses Sabina Gadeki and Breanne Racano. (Their legs and other beautiful body parts are the best things about these mediocre actresses, in my opinion). The explosion scenes are evidence of a severe shortage in the sfx budget as well as the actor budget.

Even the usually outstanding Crispin Glover as the spacey drunken rich guy Woody Ricks is tepid, either overacting scenes or underacting them. Everything seems out of sync in this film.

Perhaps I'm holding it up to too high of a standard with the aforementioned Leonard film adaptations. But it is what it is...and cool 70's sets and apparel (the novel was set in the 60s), witty Leonard dialog and clever plot apparently weren't enough for director Mattheau to pull this off. I have to believe Elmore Leonard is supremely disappointed in this effort, since as I recall he labeled this his favorite novel. One can only hope that someday a director like Tarantino remakes this film the right way, and captures the crazy 60's vibe from the novel.

Meet the intriguing characters of Freaky Deaky

[rgblakey · 6/10 · 25 February 2013]

Writer Elmore Leonard has delivered some interesting characters over the years, but up until now it was really only Quentin Tarantino's Jackie Brown and Barry Sonnenfield's Get Shorty that really successfully brought them to life. The latest attempt to bring another Leonard novel to life comes in the form of Freaky Deaky featuring a great cast including Christian Slater, Crispin Glover, Billy Burke, Michael Jai White, Bill Duke and Andy Dick, but does it deliver the strange and unique qualities needed to bring his characters and world to life?

Freaky Deaky follows an ex-bomb squad officer who is thrust into an investigation filled with rape, revenge, and explosives during circa 1974. At first this film feels like its going to be a complete mess, but then something happens and it sucks you right into this ridiculous world. This is mostly due to the creative and interesting characters that populate this 1970's universe. As the story moves forward each character is seemingly given their own time to shine to help bring this quirky dark comedy to life. The story is a bit all over the place, but works fairly well to due to these quirky strange characters and the bizarre story they are thrust into.

This is far from a perfect movie and there are some moments that just seem out of place or forced, but for the most part it works pretty well. If you are a fan of any of the other Leonard films then you will most likely enjoy this one as well as it comes across s thought it's the same universe. If nothing else, the strange relationship between Michael Jai White and Crispin Glover's characters is worth this whole move.

Holy Crap This is Bad

[bmerrett · 3/10 · 31 August 2013]

I once again must ask who I must speak to to get my latest wild imaginings put on film as this is a sure sign that they will make just about any piece of garbage into a film. Elmore Leonard (RIP) has some great works out there and some of the film adaptations of his work have been fine films. Unfortunately Freaky Deaky by Charles Matthau is not to be listed among that group. Christian Slater is a fine actor and brings something great to each role he plays as well as does Crispin Glover, who is the poster boy for edgy character. The biggest mistake the producers made in this film was casting Beanne Racano in a role. She brings new meaning to the term "wooden delivery". Wow, what a stick she is. This women should never be allowed near a script again.If she didn't look like she does and had to audition for the role based on talent, well...... I could not finish watching this film.

Funny

[tdhrftdhrf · 9/10 · 29 August 2021]

I haven't read any books by the writer, but the film had me laughing out loud in a few places. Maybe not Oscar material but for sure it is entertaining.

Bit of a mess, but that's what happen when things go Boom.

[face-819-933726 · 7/10 · 4 November 2013]

Now my first thought in watching this movie was that it was quite an accomplishment that they were able to get Crispin Glover, and Andy Dick to perform, and provide coherent performances. Beyond that you have quite the jumbled mess here that gives you the time run around for the first third of so, then just seems to suddenly converges into one story that all the players are together in. If my words are a mess in your face, then you are starting to feel a lot of how you will feel watching this movie. Crispin Glover just plays himself by the fell of it, and only once does he even remotely seem to have a grasp on reality. Or he is a great actor. Cristian Slater is his usual self, and sadly we all know that that means the poor man's Jack Nicholson, still playing the same roll that he has played for 30 years now. Or he is a great actor. The one great surprise for me was Billy Burke, and his attempt at trying to seem like a Clint Eastwood gritty cop. Michael Jai White was fantastic as Donnell, he is the glue that binds the rest of the characters together. This would be as good a movie as something like Pulp Fiction, or Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, if the dialog were less contemporary, or at least more contemporary to that time. Sure it would have made writing the jokes more challenging, but then they would have been better right? Enjoy anyway.

A cult quality

[bkoganbing · 5/10 · 17 January 2017]

With the title of Freaky Deaky I would be surprised if Christian Slater was not in the cast somewhere. Since the 80s he's collected a group of the quirkiest character parts with a nice psychotic edge to them. It's what you expect from a Slater film.

I wish he had been the real lead character here. But that goes to Billy Burke who plays a suspended Detroit police officer and member of the bomb squad. The prologue at the beginning has him going out for a smoke in a drug dealer's house and letting a bomb go off under the chair he's sitting on. That has a few people against him, but he considered it a public service.

Anyway there's a plot in the main body of the story to extort money from a millionaire Crispin Glover. Glover has a former Black Panther Party member Michael Jai White as a retainer/confidante. White is also good.

Freaky Deaky is all right, some will make it a cult film, it has that kind of quality to it.

Hilarious movie

[craigthecgiexpert · 9/10 · 21 August 2021]

How have I not heard of this till now? Super funny and with lots of plot twists. If you seen this first then watch the book after. Glad they followed the book closely by one of the most outstanding western and crime fiction writers, Elmore Leonard. 10 stars.

A good adaptation of an okay book

[dogcow · 7/10 · 25 February 2013]

I love Elmore Leonard I have read just about every novel he has written this is not among my favorites. However some of my favorites (Stick, 52 Pick Up, Rum Punch) have been made into completely terrible films.

This on the other hand is a nice adaptation. Characterizations and dialog doesn't stray much from the original story. Much of it plays out just like it did in my imagination when I read the book. The acting was passable, though I thought Glover (and to a lesser degree Andy Dick) were miscast but they did a decent job. The tone of the movie was light and breezy just like the novel. I would love to see the director take a crack at one of Leonard's better novels like Stick or The Hunted.

Example of how not to direct

[photoe · 2/10 · 5 February 2015]

The movie is set in the 1970s, but there are lots of errors in the props and locations. ITs clear there was no art direction budget to speak OK. There are the requisite TV shots of Richard Nixon and opening credits with the assassinations of the late 60s - Cliché! THe score is very stock.

The movie is really an example of what not to do directing a film. The movie executes mostly professionally on a technical level, but the direction of the actors is either ignored or rushed, so the end impression is a movie that plods and builds no tension nor environment. Plus I guess the film is supposed to be a comedy of sorts. I guess there is some sort of interwoven character plot, but I can't follow it, and there is a gaping lack of any credible villain.

Andy Dick's performance isn't a comeback, but proof he shouldn't be hired, not that his character is given much direction. Christian Slater is also still annoying, and I hoped that his less-cool character would make him more watchable, but it didn't. He's still doing the same old tired rebel/wild off shtick he can't pull off.

MIchael Jai White looks like he's floundering a bit. Crispin Glover is wasted in a ludicrous costume that detracts from every scene he's in.

The cop lead is the only one who really holds any credibility. The actresses are attractive and clichés as well. The underwear shots are gratuitous in the way that makes you think the director is paying more attention to them than the rest of his film.

After an opening when you think it will be a cool underground film, it starts to bore. Slater and Dick wear so thin as to be unwatchable. Other character actors look like they are waiting for direction or slipping out of character.

The film is really so very boring and pointless, and there is no tension, no interest in what is going to happen, nothing. It's a real example of how to make a truly non-compelling film.

From the novelist behind PULP FICTION . . .

[tadpole-596-918256 · 6/10 · 8 September 2013]

. . . one expects a little more than FREAKY DEAKY delivers. Apparently this was exhibited theatrically somewhere for at least 15 minutes, but it plays like a second-rate made-for-cable-TV flick. Since it does not have any nudity, Showtime and Cinemax definitely did not underwrite FREAKY DEAKY's bills. If there is a Speed Junior channel available somewhere (or better yet, a Jackass Channel aimed at the Amish market), FREAKY DEAKY would be a good fit, since the producers idea of fun is to blow up everyone but the bomb squad cop with explosions spaced about 15 minutes apart. Nothing too graphic, since FREAKY DEAKY (unlike, say, PULP FICTION) is film that pulls all of its punches. The characterizations are thin and unbelievable, and the actors do not look like they're having much fun--two things one would NOT say about PULP FICTION. According to recent comments from the mayor of Boston, Detroit should not have a bomb squad, anyway (in FREAKY DEAKY, Billy Burke plays Motor City demolitions Defuser Sgt. Chris Mankowski). Bean Town's boss says the first thing he would do in the Mitten State is blow up its biggest city.

PUT THAT THING AWAY!

[nogodnomasters · 4/10 · 6 December 2018]

I love a good grindhouse. Heck I even love a mediocre grindhouse. This one didn't make it, and it wasn't just because Christian Slater was in it. The film starts in 1975 then plays newsreel headlines from 1968-1975 just to let us know the writers didn't care about details. We are then fed a story that is highly improbable. All this is find and well for a grindhouse.

What this story lacked was the grindhouse soundtrack and over the top dialouge. Instead they feed us a tale of Woody (Crispin Glover) a rich stoner accused of rape by a woman (Sabina Gadecki) that wasn't sure he actually raped her. The investigator (Billy Burke) gets kicked off the force, but that didn't seem to be a plot point, just an attempt at humor. Meanwhile seductive Robin (Breanne Racano) is after the money and utilizes bomb expect Skip (Christian Slater) to assist her.

The film has a lot of drug use, but lacks decent drug humor. The humor wasn't crude or low brow, it just wasn't well written and executed, lacking zing and delivery. While people get killed in this wannabe grindhouse, there is no blood or fight scenes associated with such features. The movie is out right lame compared to how it is being promoted.

If you like a modern unrealistic view of the 70's in Detroit with substandard writing and performance, you might want to rent this film.

Parental Guide: F-bomb, lame sex scenes, no nudity.

Wow What a Terrible Mess

[wtmerrett · 1/10 · 9 February 2017]

I once again must ask who I must speak to to get my latest wild imaginings put on film as this is a sure sign that they will make just about any piece of garbage into a film. Elmore Leonard (RIP) has some great works out there and some of the film adaptations of his work have been fine films. Unfortunately Freaky Deaky by Charles Matthau is not to be listed among that group. Christian Slater is a fine actor and brings something great to each role he plays as well as does Crispin Glover, who is the poster boy for edgy character. The biggest mistake the producers made in this film was casting Beanne Racano in a role. She brings new meaning to the term "wooden delivery". Wow, what a stick she is. This women should never be allowed near a script again.If she didn't look like she does and had to audition for the role based on talent, well...... I could not finish watching this film.

Watching this in 2021

[kevintracey88 · 9/10 · 15 August 2021]

Loved it! Such an original film with a really talented cast. The plot had me right from the start and there was plenty of laughs to the very end. It's a watch from me.

No sto las demás

[stephenvilarino · 1/10 · 19 November 2021]

Why yous blancos wanna be blowin up yo country all the time. No shi man, my family worked hard 2 get here and you alls wanna blowup. Go 2 columbia, you will love. Shii man. An then you alls call this shii art. Yah i speak in a code that yo soylatte a$$ wont ever know. Beesh.

Matthau's Freaky Deaky, Make A Dad Proud

[info-14283 · 10/10 · 11 March 2021]

This was a great funny movie for people who really like character actors, facial expressions & modern day scenarios. With notable likeable actors like, Christian Slater, Crispin Glover & Michael Jai White. Crispin Glover is just classic as always in this no brainer comedy about life in Detroit. Swimming pools, million dollar mansions & babes dot the screen with color that will make you chuckle throughout the flick. This is a excellent movie to watch alone or with friends just hanging out on a Thursday night with a glass of wine for a good tongue & cheek laugh. A fun story especially if you like glitter, great acting and excellent cinematography. I really enjoyed the location scenes in this movie too. Crispin Glover is a highlight in this movie. Christian Slater plays a role in this movie that reminds me a little of Bridges in the Great Lebowski, which best describes this genre of film, you watch and tell me what you think? Enjoy, Hollywood Trout

Didn't read book but amusing film.

[fiftyshadesofspoiling · 9/10 · 29 August 2021]

Unpretentious and fast moving. Glover and White are great!

Seriously good

[cynvanity · 9/10 · 9 October 2023]

Charles Matthau's take on Elmore Leonard's Freaky Deaky offers a delightful watch. While the original novel was deeply rooted in the 1980s ambiance, Matthau masterfully transports the setting to the vibrant 1970s, infusing the film with a rich tapestry of outfits, vehicles, settings, and a wonderfully bold kitschy aesthetic. The film boasts an impeccable cast, weaving a tale of three main groups, each chasing after the allure of quick riches. The narrative revolves around the sharp-witted former bomb squad officer, Chris Mankowski (Burke), paired with the vivacious Greta (Sabina Gadecki); the extravagantly whimsical millionaire, Woody (Glover), and his trusted driver and confidant, Donelle (White); and the sultry ex-convict Robin (Breanne Racano) alongside her explosive aficionado boyfriend, Skip Gibbs (Slater). Enhanced by a groovy 1970s-inspired soundtrack and sharp, clever dialogue, this film undoubtedly stands tall within its category. It's a must-watch!

Funny but forgetable.

[ambassadorepg · 8/10 · 31 August 2021]

Some really good comedy here, but quite silly. They could have used Travolta or Clooney in the lead, but at least it didn't bore me to death like most comedies these days. Rather slickly put together for a low budget film. Not much of a plot.

Solid flick

[mangosteen55 · 9/10 · 14 October 2023]

Freaky Deaky follows the journey of a former bomb squad officer who finds himself immersed in an investigation encompassing themes of sexual assault, retribution, and explosive intrigue, all set against the backdrop of the year 1974. Initially, this film appears to be on the verge of chaos, but an unexpected twist soon immerses viewers into its absurd world. The credit for this immersion primarily goes to the creatively intriguing characters that inhabit this 1970s universe. As the narrative unfolds, each character seems to have their moment in the spotlight, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of this eccentric dark comedy. While the storyline may occasionally feel disoriented, it manages to hold together reasonably well, thanks to the eccentricity of its characters and the unusual circumstances they find themselves in.

Though far from flawless, Freaky Deaky delivers a largely enjoyable experience. While there are moments that may seem incongruous or contrived, overall, the film manages to strike a satisfying balance. If you're a fan of other Leonard films, you'll likely find this one equally appealing, as it maintains a sense of continuity within the Leonard cinematic universe. Furthermore, the peculiar dynamic between Michael Jai White and Crispin Glover's characters alone makes this movie worth the watch.

Bravo

[realskidrow · 8/10 · 16 October 2023]

This movie is an absolute gem, particularly for those who appreciate talented character actors, expressive facial performances, and relatable modern-day situations. The film boasts an ensemble cast featuring the likes of Christian Slater, Crispin Glover, and Michael Jai White, all of whom deliver notable and endearing performances.

Crispin Glover, in particular, shines brilliantly in his quintessential style, bringing his unique charm to this no-brainer comedy set in the vibrant backdrop of Detroit. The movie is a visual treat, filled with luxurious swimming pools, million-dollar mansions, and attractive individuals that add a splash of color and humor to every scene.

Whether you're watching solo or enjoying it with friends on a laid-back Thursday night, a glass of wine in hand, this film is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone with its witty humor and clever satire. It's a captivating story, especially if you have an affinity for glitz, outstanding acting, and top-notch cinematography.

One of the highlights of this movie is the captivating locations it showcases, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. And of course, Crispin Glover's performance is an absolute standout, making this movie an enjoyable and memorable experience.

They don't make films like this anymore

[milesanthonysmith · 10/10 · 27 November 2023]

I'm a big fan of Elmore Leonard and have delved into nearly all of his novels, with this one standing out as my absolute favorite. The character portrayals and dialogue in this adaptation stay true to the original narrative, unfolding much like how I envisioned them while reading the book. Though the source novel was firmly set in the 1980s, Matthau's film adaptation takes a creative turn into the 1970s. This shift adds a visually engaging layer with its vibrant array of costumes, classic cars, and distinct locations, all wrapped in a delightful 70s kitsch aesthetic.

The movie boasts a stellar cast and intricately weaves the stories of three main groups, all intertwined in the quest for easy money. There's the cynical former bomb squad officer Chris Mankowski and the charming party girl Greta; the eccentric, long-haired millionaire Woody (played by Glover) with his trustworthy driver and confidant Donelle; and the duo of ex-convict Robin and her bomb-making partner Skip Gibbs. The film is further elevated by a groovy 1970s-inspired soundtrack and sharp, witty dialogue, placing it among the best in its genre. It's a film I enthusiastically recommend for its clever storytelling and engaging execution!"