Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

Movie Details:

Cast & Characters:

• Robert Downey Jr. as Harold “Harry” Lockhart
  • Indio Falconer Downey as Harry age 9
  • Richard Alan Brown as Teen Harry (uncredited)
• Val Kilmer as “Gay” Perry van Shrike
• Michelle Monaghan as Harmony Faith Lane
  • Ariel Winter as Harmony age 7
  • Stephanie Pearson as Teen Harmony
• Corbin Bernsen as Harlan Dexter
• Dash Mihok as Mr. Frying Pan
• Larry Miller as Dabney Shaw
• Rockmond Dunbar as Mr. Fire
• Shannyn Sossamon as Mia Frye (Pink Hair Girl)
• Angela Lindvall as Flicka
• Daniel Browning Smith as Rubber Boy
• Laurence Fishburne as Bear in Genaros Beer Commercial (uncredited)

Storyline:

A private investigator, a struggling actress and a thief posing as an actor must band together to solve a murder shrouded in mystery. Starring Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer and Michelle Monaghan, the comedy thriller is partially based on Brett Halliday’s 1941 novel, Bodies Are Where You Find Them.

About Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Movie:

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is an American neo-noir black comedy crime film written and directed by Shane Black in his directorial debut. The film stars Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan, and Corbin Bernsen, and it is partially based on the Brett Halliday novel Bodies Are Where You Find Them (1941).

Plot Summary

The story follows Harry Lockhart (Downey Jr.), a petty thief who inadvertently stumbles into an audition for a detective film while fleeing from the police in New York City. Mistaken for an actor, he is flown to Los Angeles to prepare for the role, where he meets tough private eye Perry van Shrike (Kilmer), nicknamed “Gay Perry.” As Harry attempts to navigate the cutthroat world of Hollywood, he becomes embroiled in a real murder mystery involving his childhood crush, Harmony Faith Lane (Monaghan), and the suspicious death of her sister.

Harry’s journey is filled with dark humor, witty dialogue, and unexpected twists as he tries to prove himself as a detective while dealing with the eccentricities of Hollywood and the complexities of his relationships. The film cleverly blends elements of crime, comedy, and self-referential commentary on the noir genre.

Production Details

Filming took place in Los Angeles between February 24 and May 3, 2004. The film debuted at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival on May 14, 2005, and was released in the United States on October 21, 2005. Produced by Joel Silver, with Shane Black also serving as a producer, the film features a score by John Ottman.

Reception

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang received positive reviews from critics for its sharp writing, humor, and performances, particularly those of Downey Jr. and Kilmer. It grossed approximately $16 million worldwide against a budget of $15 million. Although it made a modest profit of about $800,000, it has since gained a cult following and is often praised for its inventive take on the crime genre.

Legacy

The film is noted for its clever narrative style and meta-commentary on Hollywood tropes. It has been recognized as an “overlooked” gem from 2005 and continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of humor and noir elements. Robert Downey Jr. has described it as one of his best films, highlighting its lasting impact on audiences.

Budget & Box Office Collection: