Pelis and Popcorn: 'Southland Tales'

By Michael Lopez

Can you tell we have a thing for Richard Kelly? The stylish cult film director may have just earned a slot in the Pelis & Popcorn Hall of Fame. This week marks the debut of his second P & P entry and though it may not be as popular as his Donnie Darko masterpiece, Southland Tales is definitely worth a look.

Back in 2006, there was a lot of curiosity built around Tales. This was Kelly's followup 2001's Donnie Darko, leaving a five year gap between films. Unfortunately though, this particular movie didn't quite ignite at the box office. With its post-apocalyptic story and abstract undertones, it became known as an "acquired taste."

But if you're a fan of Richard's twisted view of the world, Southland Tales will not disappoint. Featuring an all-star cast (and some very interesting cameos), it's got memorable performances from Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Seann William Scott (in a dual role!).

Southland also has a ton of familiar faces from years past. There's sitcom star John Larroquette as a shady politician, Revenge of the Nerds’ Curtis Armstrong as the aptly named Dr. Soberin Exx, and even that creepy Poltergeist lady in a brief role. Justin Timberlake pops in too, as the film's narrator.

And as far as the plot goes? Well that's all up for interpretation. Part sci-fi, part comedy, part brooding emo flick, Southland Tales is full of wry commentary. Kelly has mixed in characters from all walks of life. There are porn stars, crooked Senators, and power hungry scientists looking to destroy the fabric of space and time.

Yes Southland Tales can get weird at times, but it's also very intriguing. This is one of those movies we'd recommend recording and re-watching, because there's all kinds of subtleties you may miss the first time out. Plus, it's Halloween weekend. So why not bend your mind a bit with a creepy P & P that's sure to stay in psyche long after the credits roll.

What's your favorite movie to watch on Halloween weekend? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cult Movies, Donnie Darko, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Justin Timberlake, Movies & CineMás, Pelis and Popcorn, Richard Kelly, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Seann William Scott, Southland Tales, The Rock