Oliver Stone‘s Natural Born Killers, released in theaters on August 26, 1994, is a ferocious, hyper-stylized assault on the senses and a searing critique of America’s fascination with violence and celebrity. The story follows Mickey (Woody Harrelson) and Mallory Knox (Juliette Lewis), two young, psychopathic lovers who go on a homicidal spree across the American Southwest.
Their killing spree is documented and romanticized by the sensationalist tabloid media, transforming them into a twisted version of national folk heroes. The film’s narrative is a chaotic mix of flashbacks, animation, and fast-paced editing, reflecting the frenetic and morally ambiguous world it portrays.
At the center of this maelstrom is Robert Downey Jr.‘s character, the charismatic and corrupt TV host Wayne Gale, who thrives on the spectacle of Mickey and Mallory’s crimes. Gale’s relentless pursuit of the killer couple culminates in a live, televised interview from a maximum-security prison, where the infamous duo is held by the brutal Warden Dwight McClusky (Tommy Lee Jones).
The supporting cast, including Tom Sizemore as a detective obsessed with Mallory, and a memorable, disturbing performance by Rodney Dangerfield as Mallory’s abusive father, contribute to the film’s dense, chaotic universe.
Balthazar Getty, Richard Linebeck, Evan Handler, Joe Grifasi, Marshall Bell, Grand L. Bush, Dale Dye, and Cory Everson round out the cast.
Ashley Judd, Rachel Ticotin and Denis Leary all appear in the director’s cut.
Mark Harmon, James Gammon and Arliss Howard all make uncredited appearances.
Natural Born Killers was based on a screenplay written by Quentin Tarantino. Stone reworked it after taking over the project and Tarantino received a story credit.
Woody Harrelson in Natural Born Killers (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Natural Born Killers
Natural Born Killers grossed $11.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office.
The film would gross $110 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film four out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The legacy of Natural Born Killers is as controversial as the film itself. Upon release, it was heavily criticized for its graphic violence and was even blamed for inspiring real-life copycat crimes. However, it has since been re-evaluated as a masterful satire on media sensationalism.
Stone’s innovative, frenzied direction—using a variety of film stocks and techniques—creates a cinematic experience that is both mesmerizing and repulsive.
The film forces the audience to confront their own complicity in a media landscape that profits from tragedy and glorifies criminals, cementing its place as a provocative and unforgettable piece of filmmaking.
