Bad Timing
Bad Timing

Movie spotlight

Bad Timing

1982
Movie
24 min
English

Nancy Savoca’s second student film follows two twelve-year olds, Bobby (Joey D’Arelli) and Denise (Kelly Cinnante) who run away to Hollywood. They land at an open mic night in a New Jersey bar where Bobby’s aunt and uncle (once aspiring actors) lay out the realities of life as a working actor. The film was inspired by performers Savoca met while making her first student film, most notably William DaPrato. Filled with wry humor and quiet revelations about the pursuit of artistic dreams, Bad Timing also features Marianne Leone and the on-screen debut of future Academy Award winner Chris Cooper.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes60%
Google Users78%
Director: Nicolas RoegGenres: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A psychology professor in Vienna becomes obsessed with a young American woman who visits his city. Their passionate and destructive affair unfolds through a non-linear narrative, revealing dark secrets and psychological manipulation. As their relationship intensifies, the professor's sanity begins to unravel, leading to a tragic and inevitable conclusion.

Critical Reception

Nicolas Roeg's "Bad Timing" is a visually striking and psychologically intense film that polarized critics upon its release. Praised for its daring narrative structure and strong performances, particularly from Theresa Russell and Art Garfunkel, it was also criticized for its disturbing themes and bleak outlook. Despite its divisive reception, it has since gained a cult following and is recognized as a significant work of 1980s cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its bold, non-linear storytelling and directorial style.

  • Theresa Russell's performance is often cited as a standout, embodying the film's unsettling atmosphere.

  • Criticized by some for its explicit and disturbing portrayal of relationships and obsession.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally appreciate the film's artistic merit and provocative themes, with many highlighting the intense performances. Some viewers find the narrative challenging and the subject matter difficult to watch.

Fun Fact

Nicolas Roeg's distinctive visual style is evident throughout the film, with striking cinematography that enhances the psychological tension and unsettling mood.

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