Slipping-Down Life, A MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: -3

Evie Decker (Lili Taylor) is a young woman living in a small town and steeped in depression. She longs to get out of her funk but cant see a light at the end of the tunnel. One summer evening, Evie hears local musician Drumstrings Casey (Guy Pearce) in a radio interview and immediately feels as though shes known him her whole life. A glimmer of hope sparkles in Evies eyes as she begins to follow the singer on his nightly gigs throughout the small town. This sensible, responsible woman becomes obsessed with a rocker. During one of the concerts, Evie does something drastic, causing the crowd to panic and grabbing Drumstrings attention. Intrigued by Evies actions, Drumstrings desires to pursue this young woman and finds himself deeply drawn to her. Evie reciprocates, and the two embark on a challenging journey, experiencing the joys and sorrows of a unique relationship.

After being made in 1999, A Slipping-Down Life is only now being distributed to theaters, a clue that movie executives arent expecting much from this one. Evie and Drumstrings stay together in their relationship in the midst of difficult circumstances and their extremely different personalities. Through love, forgiveness, commitment and persistence, they grow through hard times. Overshadowing this positive theme are the many sexual connotations and excessive vulgar language, which muddle the plot and spoil the films commendable aspects. In one standout scene, Evie uses a piece of glass to carve CASEY into her forehead. The film accurately depicts what is generally seen in abnormally dysfunctional relationships, but it lacks healthy, positive content with substance. A Slipping-Down Life is for adult audiences.

Preview Reviewer: Troy Dandrea
Distributor: Lions Gate