Simple Plan, A MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: -3

Brothers, Hank and Jacob Mitchel (Bill Paxton and Billy Bob Thornton) accompanied by their buddy Lou (Brent Brisco), stumble across 4 million dollars hidden in an undiscovered crashed plane. Deciding not to report the crash but keep the money for themselves, the three men agree to leave the money with Hank for safe keeping until the plane is discovered the next spring after the first thaw. But in an effort to keep their secret, Jacob assaults a neighbor who is close to discovering the plane. In an attempt to conceal the crime, Hank, Jacob and Lou find themselves caught up in a whirlwind of deceit that leads to the death of several close friends. This well written tragedy, lacking a happy ending, is uncommon for today's Hollywood feature films. But the amazing performances of Thornton, Paxton and others may not be enough to keep this depressing tragedy from holding its own against the lively, uplifting holiday movies this Christmas.

Unfortunately, there are very few, if any, uplifting elements in this film, except that a negative consequences are depicted for deceit, jealousy and greed. Several violent images darken the film with pictures of senseless shootings, and the brief depiction of a bird picking at the eye of a deceased airplane pilot may disturb sensitive viewers. Two brief scenes of female full frontal nudity are completely gratuitous, as an infant in a bath and a pregnant woman dressing are included. Also, the film earns it's R rating with 51 f and s words, 22 crudities and 18 regular profanities. Filled with objectionable language, nudity and violence, A SIMPLE PLAN simply isn't worth planning to see.

Preview Reviewer: Rik Wyrick
Distributor: Paramount Pictures, 5555 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90038