Mad Dog Time

Mad Dog Time is a 1996 crime comedy film directed by Larry Bishop, featuring an ensemble cast led by Richard Dreyfuss. The movie offers a quirky, stylized take on the gangster genre, centering around a group of mobsters and hitmen navigating a turbulent, often surreal underworld filled with betrayal, power struggles, and dark humor. With its blend of sharp dialogue, offbeat characters, and unconventional storytelling, the film attempts to both homage and parody traditional mob movies, creating a unique, if polarizing, cinematic experience. Mad Dog Time stands out for its distinctive approach to crime comedy, balancing eccentric moments with gritty urban atmosphere.

Mad Dog Time received largely negative reviews from critics and audiences alike, reflected in its low ratings across review aggregators. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 17% approval rating, indicating widespread critical disapproval. Many reviewers criticized the movie’s convoluted plot and uneven tone, finding the story confusing and the humor ineffective. Some noted that the film’s attempt at stylish, jazzy crime comedy felt forced and did not translate well on screen. Meanwhile, IMDb users gave the movie an average rating of 5.4 out of 10, suggesting mixed opinions among viewers; some appreciated its quirky style and camp appeal, while others found it dull and poorly executed. Metacritic ratings and other review platforms similarly echoed these sentiments, with critiques pointing to the movie’s pacing issues and underdeveloped characters. However, the film has gained a modest cult following among fans of offbeat and cult cinema who value its idiosyncratic approach, even if the mainstream reception was unfavorable.