Today’s quick review: Where’s Marlowe?. Aspiring filmmakers Wilton Crawley (Mos Def) and A.J. Edison (John Livingston) pick Joe Boone (Miguel Ferrer), a struggling private investigator, as the subject of their next documentary. But when a falling-out with his partner (John Slattery) jeopardizes Joe’s business, the two filmmakers decide to lend him a hand with his latest case, a convoluted web of adultery and lies.
Where’s Marlowe? is a crime comedy that showcases the unglamorous side of the P.I. business. The movie follows Wilt and A.J. as they tag along on the mundane investigations that are Joe’s bread and butter. Where’s Marlowe? presents itself as though it were their documentary: every piece of footage comes from their camera. The movie uses this narrative device to good effect, exploring film as a medium and indulging in a clever bit of meta-humor.
Where’s Marlowe? gets much of its charm from its three main characters, a trio of lovable losers. Joe is a down-on-his-luck private eye whose kind heart makes him a poor fit for his profession. Wilt and A.J. are a pair of young filmmakers who are still trying to find their voice. Where’s Marlowe? only develops its characters gradually, but once enough of their warm, awkward personalities are revealed, they carry the film.
Beyond its well-drawn characters, Where’s Marlowe? struggles with a lack of impact. The movie takes a long time to set up its initial premise, its plot, and its characters. The humor plays on the gap between the romantic ideal of a private detective and the unimpressive reality, but the jokes are too understated to earn any big laughs. The plot also follows suit, offering a skewed and anticlimactic take on the noir formula.
Give Where’s Marlowe? a shot when you’re in the mood for a heartfelt comedy with good characters, an inventive narrative device, and mixed payoff. It lacks the dramatic and comedic weight that it might have had, but what’s there is an enjoyable experience for the right viewer. For sharper humor, more action, and a similarly meta take on the noir genre, check out Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. For a comedy with similar charm, check out Be Kind Rewind.
6.3 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for good characters, decent humor, and heart, let down by awkward pacing and a muted plot.