The Rewatchables

'Face/Off' Live With Bill Simmons, Shea Serrano, Chris Ryan, and Jason Concepcion

Oct 26, 2017
Join Bill Simmons, Shea Serrano, Chris Ryan, and Jason Concepcion in a lively discussion dissecting the 1997 action-sci-fi blockbuster 'Face/Off'. They explore the face-switching concept, analyze the iconic shootout scene, critique the CGI flaws, and unravel the absurdity in the movie. The hosts also compare Nicolas Cage's acting in 'Face/Off' to his other roles, engaging with the audience and planning future live events.
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INSIGHT

High-Concept Execution Wins Over Critics

  • Face/Off mixes extreme concept with earnest execution, which made a campy premise play as a serious blockbuster.
  • Roger Ebert and audiences responded positively because the film leaned into heightened performances and spectacle.
ANECDOTE

Vendetta Origin Sets The Stakes

  • Jason summarizes the plot: Sean Archer loses his son at a carousel and vows revenge on Castor Troy.
  • That origin fuels a years-long vendetta and the movie's extreme face-switch premise.
INSIGHT

Layered Set Pieces Fuel Rewatchability

  • Face/Off builds multiple iconic set pieces that reward repeat viewing, like the 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' shootout.
  • John Woo layers music, slow motion, and surreal props to make these scenes endlessly rewatchable.
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