Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead

In the gritty and darkly comedic film "Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead," writer and director Gary Sherman weaves a complex narrative that follows a disparate group of five misfits, each with their unique set of skills and personalities, as they attempt to survive the treacherous underworld of organized crime. The movie's premise revolves around a botched job, leaving each of the characters to face the very real prospect of death, forcing them to come together and concoct a plan to overcome their impending doom. The story unfolds with an introduction to the film's protagonist, Ethanol, portrayed by Christopher Walken, a charismatic and seemingly unflappable individual who has managed to stay one step ahead of his nemesis, a ruthless and cunning crime lord known as Ray. Ray, fueled by a burning desire for revenge, becomes obsessed with eliminating Ethanol and anyone else who dares to cross him. This sets off a chain reaction as Ethanol is forced into hiding, leading to a series of unexpected and precarious encounters with his past acquaintances. Among those Ethanol crosses paths with is Denny, played by William Atherton, a self-proclaimed "hacker" who uses his exceptional technical skills to steal valuable information from high-security databases. Next, the film introduces Donny, played by Steve Buscemi, a diminutive, fast-talking wisecracker who makes his living by "lifting" valuable goods from wealthy clients. Then there's Jack, played by Balthazar Getty, a young and ambitious up-and-coming thug eager to prove himself in the world of organized crime. Lastly, the character of Joe, played by Christopher Lloyd, rounds out the quintet, serving as a somewhat detached and world-weary "wise man" who has managed to accumulate wealth and a seemingly infinite amount of useless knowledge throughout his long and storied career. As fate continues to weave its complex web around these disparate characters, the group discovers that they've all become intertwined in a complex web of deceit and danger. The botched job, which initiated the film's chaotic sequence of events, has left them all with a target on their backs, forcing them to rely on each other for survival. In a series of tense and often comical encounters, the characters frantically try to piece together the threads of their lives, all while searching for a way to escape the clutches of Ray's goons. The supporting cast of characters adds depth and nuance to the story, each bringing their unique perspective and set of skills to the table. Among the standout characters is the enigmatic and beautiful Samantha, played by Heather Graham, a beautiful and seemingly unattainable femme fatale who finds herself inexplicably drawn to the eccentric Joe, played by Christopher Lloyd. The chemistry between these two characters adds a touch of tenderness and poignancy to the otherwise bleak narrative, hinting at a sense of redemption and human connection amidst the chaos. Throughout the film, Sherman employs a visually striking aesthetic, juxtaposing the gritty, crime-infested world of 1990s Denver with a vibrant tapestry of dark humor, complex characters, and intense suspense. The film's title itself pays homage to the idea that there's always something to do when you're dead – whether it's a desperate attempt to cling to life or a last-ditch effort to leave a mark on the world. Ultimately, what sets "Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead" apart from other crime dramas is its refreshingly irreverent take on the genre. Rather than adhering to traditional tropes of gritty realism and unrelenting intensity, the film injects a healthy dose of dark humor, clever satire, and even the occasional pop culture reference to keep the story from becoming too weighed down by its own darkness. This unapologetic blend of genres sets the stage for a cinematic experience that is both unpredictable and mesmerizing, a true standout in the pantheon of cult classics.