King of California
Charlie gets released from an insane asylum and moves in with Miranda, the young daughter he left behind. Charlie believes that there is treasure hidden beneath the local Costco, so he puts together a plan to unearth the loot. By convincing Miranda to quit her job at McDonald's and instead work at the wholesale store, he is able to obtain a key. Although Miranda is skeptical, she helps her father with his irrational quest.
Insights
Plot Summary
A former corporate executive, recently released from a psychiatric hospital, becomes convinced that a massive gold deposit lies beneath his suburban California home. He enlists his teenage daughter, who is struggling to save for college, to help him pursue this potentially life-changing, yet increasingly delusional, quest. Their unusual mission leads them down a path of escalating absurdity and desperation as they try to unearth their fortune.
Critical Reception
King of California received mixed to positive reviews from critics. Many praised the performances of Michael Douglas and Evan Rachel Wood, as well as Mike Mills's quirky and offbeat directorial style. However, some critics found the film's narrative uneven and its quirky tone occasionally overbearing.
What Reviewers Say
- Michael Douglas delivers a compelling performance as a man battling delusion and ambition.
- Evan Rachel Wood provides a strong counterpoint as the grounded daughter drawn into her father's eccentric pursuit.
- Director Mike Mills injects the film with a unique, indie sensibility that is both charming and thought-provoking.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally appreciated the film's originality and the strong acting, particularly from the lead duo. Some viewers found the premise a bit too strange, but many enjoyed the blend of humor and drama.
Fun Fact
The film was inspired by director Mike Mills's own father, who believed he had found a way to find gold in their backyard.
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