Schleuderpartie

One of those films that make you realise just how good American cinema could be in the 70s. The plot is less important than the beautifully written and performed off-beat characters, all in their own way in search of an elusive (and finally impossible) pot of gold.

But perhaps the strongest feature of the film are the set pieces: James Caan gets a lift in the truck of a grumpy farmer: "Get out of my truck!" "Well, can you stop it first?"; Caan visits the 'head' in a diner, and a terrified customer comes rushing in - what's scared him?; the final ten minutes, a trailer marooned in the middle of the road, destruction all around, and James Caan finally waking up (existentially): "What the f*** am I doing here in a vegetable stand in the middle of nowhere?"

Caan showing a subtle touch with light/black comedy, the glorious Sally Kellerman, Peter Boyle as always wacky as hell ...

Pure gold.

Had long been curious about this movie-especially after first watching the beginning scene on YouTube-so I was ecstatic to finally check this out at my local library. James Caan is a recent parolee who encounters various people drifting down the road like Sally Kellerman when her car is temporarily out of commission or Peter Boyle who he has to meet concerning some money. Louise Lasser, Richard B. Shull, and Alex Rocco are among the supporting cast. I'll just now say that while there's some funny bits and lines, this was mostly played straight concerning characterization and plot. Yes, it meanders quite a bit but that's part of the movie's charm. So on that note, Slither is worth a look.

James Caan is known as a tough guy, but he plays an entirely different character here. He is an ex con fresh out of jail and gets mixed up with eccentric criminals in which he thinks there will be a big payoff in the end. It's a comedy in which James plays his character in a kind, gentle way. You get the feeling he is going along to get along and those around him are crazy. Sally Kellerman is great as a crazy woman who meets Caan by chance and just won't go away. Peter Boyle also is good as a shady criminal trying to get money. Overall the plot is thin, but the ride is fun.

This is a character driven comedy, drama, crime, mystery that defies definition.

Back in the 70's some really fine films were made, and there were some really terrible ones too. But the movie studios were in the mood to make so many films that in the process some totally unique ones that just happened to be good were made. I don't know why this film never got the attention it deserved. When I first saw it in 1973 I have to admit I was under the influence of herbal substances. It was a favorite pastime back then to get a buzz on and see a movie. I thought it was very funny at the time. Seeing it for the second time last night I was delighted to find out that even without mood altering contraband it was every bit as funny as the first time. Now that's saying something.

If you love really great character performances this one is full of em. Sally Kellerman appeared to be having the time of her life. It must have been a character actor's wet dream. It does not hurt to have a great script either. Slither had it in spades.

This films will keep you guessing the entire time. I don't care how many films you have seen, you will not be able to predict the outcome of this one. But along the way be prepared for some incredibly dark humor that carries you along till the very end.

I will make you a bet. There is a bit of an introductory plot outline that shows up before the opening credits. If you can stay with it till then, you will not be able to turn it off. I bet you a big black van that you will finish it.

"who are those guys anyway?" The fun of finding out is a real pleasure trip.

An ex-con stumbles across America, meeting one oddball character after another, while being pursued by a mysterious black minivan. The characters are wonderful - oddball without being exaggerated or overdone. The plot is engrossing. It's a wonderful piece of 70s anarchy. It is very clear that this must have been a big influence on the Coen brothers movies. That combination of deadpan observation of personal quirk and absurdity, combined with violence and a twisting plot. The Big Lebowski is a clear example of where you'll this film's influence. All the performances are great, with Sally Kellerman being her usual unforgettable self.