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Dec 20, 2015PHILLIP GARY SMITH rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
This Criterion Collection version really adds to the depth and understanding of the movie The King of Marvin Gardens. Noted director Bob Rafelson provides selected-scene commentary that is telling in detail and the film's characters. Jack Nicholson and Bruce Dern come together in Atlantic City where Bruce is a loose cannon and Nicholson is the introspective self who composes while live on radio. Special kudos to Ellen Burstyn who brings the movie alive with her character and approach; she's quite the pill. As a 1972 feature, the film shows the sensibilities of the time but also provides imaginative scenes that only a Rafelson movie would include. Remember, this is the director of Five Easy Pieces along with Easy Rider . . . expect a thoughtful, but wild, roller coaster ride along the Board Walk.