The Matador

In writer/director Richard Shepard’s cheeky black comedy "The Matador" Pierce Brosnan takes a running stab at his former iconic image as James Bond by playing a worldly, insecure and immature contract killer. Julian Noble (Brosnan) is an eccentric omnisexual hit man with a knack for a dirty joke. While on assignment in Mexico he meets straight-laced Denver businessman Danny Wright (Greg Kinnear) and the two men strike up an uncomfortable conversation that will lead to an uncomfortable friendship which will eventually end up saving each man’s life, or lifestyle at least. Pierce Brosnan plays the last of a dying breed, hence the film’s title, but he’s also an actor who can slap his audience and kiss them in the same breath. Special features include commentary with Richard Shepard, Greg Kinnear and Pierce Brosnan, a short making-of featurette, 11 deleted/extended scenes, two Richard Shepard radio show appearances, and theatrical trailer. Aspect ratio is 2.35:1, with sound quality processed in 5.1 Dolby Digital. (Movie - Four Stars, DVD features – Three Stars) Rated R, 97 mins. (Weinstein Company)