Elliot Gould's suave, carefree character appeared to have taken notes from Humphrey Bogart. His witty, mumbling dialogue created a realistic, humorous tone from the beginning of the film. The opening scene with Marlowe (Gould) going to great lengths to feed his cat was fantastic, it could have been a great short piece in itself. This scene setup the first 2/3 of the film, if only it stayed on this track throughout the piece.
As far as quick, witty dialogue goes, the film reminded me of Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. An equally mysterious, quirky film from the beginning of the 2000's. The main characters from both films put on this facade of being worry free and nonchalant in sticky situations, when deep down they do care. They are all business. In the case of Marlowe, just when the audience feels they've figured this character out, he goes and murders the same friend he's been trying to bring justice to.
The last act seemed to detach me from the story I had first been so intrigued by. It seemed to have switched gears, a new character arose and it was one I didn't enjoy following anymore. I just wanted to see more smart talking and smooth wit to detectives, criminals and ladies that many modern day heroes are known for. Oh Elliott Gould, you are so smooth.
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