Leaving Las Vegas (1995)

My Review

“Leaving Las Vegas” is a drama film about a man who loses everything, his wife, children, and job, and leaves his hometown of Los Angeles, moving to Las Vegas with the intent of drinking himself to death. In his new city, he strikes up a relationship with a prostitute and his life spirals even more downward. Director-screenwriter Mike Figgis (“Internal Affairs” 1990) put together quite a candid look at the dangers of alcoholism and the damage it creates. It was adapted from the 1990 novel of the same name by John O’Brien.

The star of the show is Nicholas Cage in the lead role. He delivered a gut-wrenching performance, revealing the effects of alcoholism, warts and all. He won the film’s only Academy Award, for Best Actor. Elizabeth Shue also did well as the hooker in the film. She received an Oscar nod for Best Actress, one of three which included Best Director and Best Screenplay (Figgis).

Co-stars include Richard Lewis, Steven Weber, Laurie Metcalf, French Stewart, Mariska Hargitay (daughter of Jayne Mansfield), Julian Lennon (son of John Lennon), Marc Coppola (brother of Nicholas Cage), Danny Huston (son of John Huston), R. Lee Ermey, Xander Berkeley, Graham Beckel, and Lou Rawls. The barely watchable “Leaving Las Vegas” was successful at the box office for United Artists, Lumiere Pictures, and MGM/UA Distribution Company.