The Coen brothers' average remains a solid 300. The Big Lebowski is big fun. Jeff Bridges is the perfect foil for the usual assortment of Coen characters of hustlers schemers and well intentioned screw-ups. In a case of mistaken identity "The Dude", is thought to be "The Big Lebowski", an Angelino whose public rep is that of philanthropist. The dude's rep is that of one in need of philanthropy. Unfortunately for the dude the big Lebowski's wife has incurred some pretty heavy debts with some types who would just as soon break your kneecaps as a 7/10 split. When the dude tries to explain to the baddies that he's just your average Joe whose main passion is hanging with his buds at the local bowling lanes, they of course don't believe him and that's when the fun begins.
Jeff Bridges has the 'easy going, hippie-dude' persona down to a 'T'. The big Lebowski's daughter, a Gertrude Whitney for the 90's, is deftly actualized by Julianne Moore. Rick Heinrichs' set design and Chris L. Spellman's set decoration are to be applauded. There is no doubt the story takes place in L.A. and the fantasy eye candy is splendid. Steve Buscemi and John Goodman do not dissappoint. You like bowling? You like intrigue? You like The Eagles? See this movie. "The Dude Abides!"
