Harry Lockhart played by Robert Downey Jr. narrates the film. He is a petty thief in New York City. One day he evades the cops by hiding out at an acting audition for a Hollywood detective film. The high flyer producer (Larry Miller) really likes Harry and flies him to Los Angeles for a screen test. A real detective named Perry Van Shrike (Val Kilmer), also known as "Gay Perry" is hired to teach Harry actual detective work and real situations. But unfortunate situations lead them to real murder that involves Harry's high school dream girl Harmony Faith Lane (Michelle Monaghan), her younger sister as well as a wealthy man and several other gangsters. Find out more about this murder mystery.

 The directorial debut of Shane Black with a classic detective story is a well done job. He cleverly narrates a complex story in such a way that the characters directly talk to the audience watching the film, referring to the scene being played and even stopping the film to go back a few frames. He uses the right mix of wit and cynicism and his dialogues are hilarious. His smartness, style, skill and craftsmanship are remarkable. 

Robert Downey Jr. as Harry is excellent. Van Kilmer as "Gay Perry" is great as usual. Downey and Kilmer as a team present a wonderful performance. They make you laugh throughout the film. Sexy Michelle Monaghan as Harmony is funny and witty. All the supporting cast are great. The film concentrates on the relationship between Harry and Gay. Even though the film has it's flaws, as an entertainer it has a few thrills, suspense and is funny. It is filled with fantasy, realism as well as surprises. This hilarious thriller is one of the best movies of the year. 

We rate this movie GOOD.