"The Dude abides." It has been said that true art is incomprehensible. If that is so, then The Big Lebowski deserves a place next to much of Picasso's work. Ostensibly a comedy, this movie actually has few "laugh out loud" moments, although there are many, many funny quotes to be heard throughout. In fact, The Big Lebowski doesn't even have much of a plot (as such, I will not describe it); it relies on the talents of its actors, writers, and directors to carry it through its running time. Surprisingly, it succeeds. At first glance, the film may seem like it is aimed at the lowest common denominator; as one gets more involved in the film, it becomes apparent that it is actually an incredibly intelligent, witty film that just happens to feature a lot of stoner jokes. Jeff Bridges' role as Jeff "The Dude" Lebowski is hands-down one of the absolute greatest performances in the history of film, while John Goodman is absolutely amazing as Walter Sobchak, Lebowski's bowling partner and psychotic Jewish-convert Vietnam War veteran. Both men should have won Oscars for their roles; they are just that good.
Steve Buscemi, Julianne Moore, Tara Reid, Sam Elliott, and John Turturro also have memorable roles in what may be one of the most intellectually stimulating movies ever made. After the end credits finish, you will be left to ponder your own existence, rugs that bring the room together, and what-have-you. And, for God's sake, DO NOT WATCH THIS MOVIE ON TELEVISION! Edited-for-TV versions are expurgated and cut so heavily that it is as if the film had been lobotomized, leading to such "memorable" quotes as "This is what happens when you f[ind] a stranger in the A[lps]!"
Rating: 95/100
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