|
Heath Ledger Back as Broke Junkie
Although Heath Ledger landed an Oscar nomination for his work in Brokeback Mountain,
he actually delivers a far more deserving performance here as Dan, a hedonistic
heroin addict as intoxicated by love as by the drugs he’s mainlining. Fellow
Aussie Abbie Cornish co-stars in the title role as Candy, the object of Dan’s
affection, and a similarly self-destructive soul willing to do almost anything
for her next fix.
Based on Luke Davies’ novel of the same name, this faithful adaptation
presents a disturbingly realistic look at two losers blissfully spiraling down
a suicidal path. The story is set in Sydney where we find unpublished poet Dan
and struggling artist Candy in a state of denial about their dire predicament.
Unemployed and more inclined to play than work, the craven couple initially relies
on her bewildered parents (Noni Hazelhurst and Tony Martin), for money, and on
the sympathy of a junkie college professor (Geoffrey Rush), for free smack. But
as maintaining their high becomes increasingly expensive, Dan turns to shoplifting
and identity theft, Candy to
prostitution.
Before bottoming-out, the two marry, overdose, try to kick the habit cold turkey,
have an unplanned pregnancy, a miscarriage, and mental illness. Though not exactly
a feelgood flick, Candy is a quite compelling cautionary tale which presents
a plausible, if arresting picture of what life might be like for folks with a
monkey on their backs. Think of this warts-and-all adventure as the cinematic
equivalent of a “Just Say No” public service announcement.
Excellent (3.5 stars)
|
