Parting Shots (1999)
Harry Sterndale, a failed photographer, is given a diagnosis of cancer and told that he has only three months to live. After thinking things over, he decides that since he is dying anyway, he will kill or destroy all the people that ever crossed or hurt him during his life - after all, he will be dead anyway long before he can come to trial and get his just desserts from society. Harry hires an assassin to finish himself off in style, and even has time to fall in love with Jill. However, there's just one small problem with Harry's master plan - the cancer diagnosis is totally inaccurate and now he's got a hitman on his trail and several policemen wanting to talk to him about some murders...
Movie Overview"Parting Shots" is a 1999 British dark comedy-crime film directed by Michael Winner. The leading roles are played by Chris Rea and Felicity Kendal, with guest looks by distinguished stars like Oliver Reed, Ben Kingsley, and John Cleese.
Plot SummaryIn "Parting Shots", Chris Rea represents Harry Sterndale, a failed photographer. Sterndale is detected with terminal cancer and is informed that he has only a few weeks to live. Surprised by the news and unhappy with his presence, he chooses to retaliate on all the people who have triggered damage and difficulty throughout his life. He sets out on an objective to eliminate all such people prior to his impending death.
After his very first successful murder, Sterndale grows not only more confident but mentally and emotionally stronger too. In an ironic twist of fate, Harry starts to take pleasure in life more than he ever did previously. In the middle of his homicidal spree, Sterndale falls for Jill Saunders, a character played by Felicity Kendal, which adds a romantic subplot to the story.
Crucial ReceptionThe film's reception was mainly unfavorable, largely due to its blend of black funny and homicide which didn't go down well with audiences and critics. Lots of criticized Director Michael Winner's handling of delicate issues and felt the plot was dull and the humor, crude. In spite of its outstanding cast, the film could not live up to expectations.
PerformancesAlthough the motion picture did not prosper general, the efficiencies of its leads, Chris Rea and Felicity Kendal, were applauded. Their on-screen chemistry was appreciated and provided a silver lining to an otherwise widely panned film. The supporting cast, consisting of comical legend John Cleese together with Bob Hoskins and Oliver Reed, also offered some remarkable moments.
Conclusion"Parting Shots" is a blend of black funny and crime that attempts to spin a dark and humorous story around the lead character's revenge on the accidents in his life. In spite of its imperfections and unfavorable evaluations, the film is noteworthy for its star-studded cast and efficiencies.
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