2 Days in the Valley -- ***1/2 (out of 5) (1996)
Cast: James Spader, Danny Aiello, Teri Hatcher, Eric Stoltz, Glenne Headly
Directed By John Herzfeld
2 DAYS IN THE VALLEY will probably forever be compared to PULP FICTION, and probably rightly so. They both have an ensemble cast whose characters initially don't seem to have anything to do with each other, but as the film progresses, their lives intertwine to form the backbone of the story. 2 DAYS IN THE VALLEY also has it's share of violence, colorful characters, and a great deal of humor. It may be an imitator, but that doesn't make it any less entertaining.
The storyline evolved through a series of circumstances happening over two days in Los Angeles, where ten very different people's lives change dramatically after a man is murdered in the house of his ex-wife by a couple of hitmen.
2 DAYS IN THE VALLEY is both a terrific thriller and pithy comedy, and understandably is favorably compared to the works of Quentin Tarantino. However, while the influence cannot be denied, 2 DAYS achieves a refreshing style of it's own. Sporting sparkling vivid characterizations, nice touches of humor, and likeable performances, it definitely is a much overlooked gem.
The film isn't without it's share of flaws. While many of the characters are well-drawn and fun to watch, some are more entertaining than others, and you may occasionally wish the film would have cut out certain characters and beefed up others, depending on your opinion of the cast. There also are some subplots which are left unresolved by the end, which will further convince you of that fact.
However, the flaws are relatively minor, and for most viewers, easily put up with in order to enjoy the film as a whole. Next time you're in the videostore and just can't seem to find that second or third movie to fill the evening or weekend with, I'd suggest looking out for this one for some fun and intriguing fare.