Very Bad Things

REVIEW
A black comedy which delivers on its dark, twisted premise but just isn't that funny, Very Bad Things marks the writing and directing debut of actor Berg. The film begins at breakneck pace, with groom-to-be Favreau and pals going to Vegas for a fun and frolicking bachelor party. When a prostitute is accidentally killed, the five friends are faced with a decision: call the cops or bury the body in the desert. This being a black comedy, it's not difficult to figure out which one they choose. In no time, paranoia and guilt soon take their toll. Berg gives the film a visual verve, and the fast-cuts and sharp cinematography make the film seem very lively; but as writer, he has failed to fully deliver. His tale is dark enough, and while watching it one can appreciate the set-up and contrivances; but there are few laughs, and the gore and humor don't mesh. One dilutes the other. Mean-spiritedness, absurd and funny can go hand-in-hand, but the film needs more irony, wit and substance to work as such.