Bound

Starring: Jennifer Tilly, Gina Gershon, Joe Pantoliano, Christopher Meloni
Directed by: Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Thriller
1996

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A mobster's (Joe Pantoliano) wife (Jennifer Tilly) and her lesbian lover (Gina Gershon) concoct a plan to rob the mafia of millions of dollars.

Review:

Tim: Bound is interesting because it's the directorial debut of The Wachowski Siblings, a movie unlike most of their subsequent work. This film is much more mainstream (although with some unique twists)- it's a straightforward crime thriller. However, The Wachowskis do put their own stamp on the film. While this film isn't great, it does showcase their talent and hint at a bright future for the duo.

The film is interesting because of the different relationships it shows. You have a mobster, played by Joe Pantoliano, and his wife, who is obviously attracted to the ladies. Their relationship is complex, obviously. Pantoliano also has a very tension-filled relationship with his boss's son, played by Christopher Meloni. Their clashes make for interesting relationship dynamics. Pantoliano's wife is played by Jennifer Tilly, who starts a lesbian relationship with Gina Gershon. Their relationship is tumultuous as well, as they have some conflict and trust issues- do they really love each other, or are they using each other for their own gain? The movie creates some interesting characters and really focusing on the complex, dysfunctional dynamics of those relationships. That's what elevates this film.

Outside of the relationships, the movie is fairly straightforward- the two women decide to steal money from the mob and frame someone else, so that they can leave town and no one will know they stole the money. The plot is interesting and presents a number of twists and turns (nothing ever works out exactly as planned). There are some legitimately suspenseful moments throughout the film. The problem is that while you're interested in the characters, I never really felt any deep emotional connection to them. This means I was intrigued, but not engrossed in the story. The Wachowskis do create some very tense moments, which is really appealing aspect of the film.

The cast is pretty strong. Jennifer Tilly gives a good performance, keeping you off balance as to what you think about her character. Gina Gershon was fine, although it felt like she was trying a little too hard to be this tough-as-nails chick. I'm always a big fan of Joe Pantoliano and I really enjoyed his performance here. It might be the best of the film. Even Christopher Meloni gives a good performance. On paper, this isn't an 'A' list cast, but they all turn in good work.

As a whole, Bound isn't an exceptional movie, but it's a solid debut for two talented filmmakers. It might be my least favorite movie of theirs, but debut films are often a step below future work. This is a movie directed by two inexperienced filmmakers, but ones with a great deal of talent. If you're a fan of the Wachowskis work (and I definitely am), their first film is a must-see.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



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