Michael Douglas says that Falling Down is his favorite role and I wholeheartedly agree, it’s my favorite of his as well. It’s been a long time since I saw it (remember absolutely loving it in the theater) but it’s just as good as the first time I saw it. I’m still in awe that this was made by the same director that made the atrocious Batman & Robin (1997). This film certainly makes up for that mistake and then some.
The script is so smart but extremely edgy. I heard all the studios turned it down until Douglas read it and pushed it hard to get made. I can see why studios would be scared because it’s unabashedly aggressive and challenging material. The other great part of this film is Robert Duvall’s performance which is just stunning. He’s a national treasure. So many great roles.
This film is a powerful social commentary, one of the best films of the 1990’s, and Michael Douglas’s best role. That says it all.