A Simple Plan is not the most pleasant film to watch. Naturally, there are far worse films out there and this is not at the bottom of the barrel by any means. The performances are first rate, particularly Billy Bob's. However, while viewing the film, you may find yourself saying, "No, don't do that. You're going to be sorry later." Although it evolves, the "plan" is botched from the start, should never have been developed, and the events that transpire along the way as a result of this "plan" only make you wonder when these people will know when to stop and cut their losses. The point is they don't know, and can't seem to know. Greed turns into futility. A downward trip to the depths of despair. They're in over their heads, and at least to them there appears to be no way out until the inevitable conclusion. Of course, there was a way out... the real FBI would be one source that could have been consulted, but this is cinema after all, not a bastion of common sense. As a morality play, A Simple Plan delivers the goods... (1) greed is not worth the consequences, (2) a conscience can be as lethal to the psyche as an 18-wheeler is to a roadside squirrel, and (3) when you've killed once, it seems that a domino effect is inevitable. The most important message any viewer can take away from seeing this film is to avoid thinking that money will solve all problems. It won't; it can't; and this movie proves it. Also, if you find large sums of money, please be aware that there will be people on both sides of the law looking for it. So don't be stupid enough to think you won a lottery. As a "Simple Plan" confirms, it just isn't worth it. Overall, 7/10.
Review of A Simple Plan
