The United States of Leland is a movie that is brilliant in parts. Much of the dialogue stands out and leaves a lasting impression. Many of the shorter scenes in the movie are briefly touching. There are also a couple of funny, though subdued, moments that on the whole keeps the viewer interested. In a way, this movie is pretty similar to American Beauty minus the catchy musical score, in its dull setting, trying to drive home a message about American society today.

Don Cheadle's character for the most part of the most appeared to be a mere aside that simply took off the attention for sometime from Leland. He is not to be blamed as I feel he did a terrific job. The story was just simply weak in this regard.

My chief complaint though, which I would like to see addressed by somebody on this forum later, is Chris Klein's character, Allen. I did not leave the movie convinced that he would be driven to murder Leland considering the sketchy portrayal of his role in the movie.… more »

The United States of Leland is a movie that is brilliant in parts. Much of the dialogue stands out and leaves a lasting impression. Many of the shorter scenes in the movie are briefly touching. There are also a couple of funny, though subdued, moments that on the whole keeps the viewer interested. In a way, this movie is pretty similar to American Beauty minus the catchy musical score, in its dull setting, trying to drive home a message about American society today.

Don Cheadle's character for the most part of the most appeared to be a mere aside that simply took off the attention for sometime from Leland. He is not to be blamed as I feel he did a terrific job. The story was just simply weak in this regard.

My chief complaint though, which I would like to see addressed by somebody on this forum later, is Chris Klein's character, Allen. I did not leave the movie convinced that he would be driven to murder Leland considering the sketchy portrayal of his role in the movie. He was not family. Somehow Leland's actions alone, were not really responsible for Julie wanting to break up. Even if it were, it seemed hard to believe that he would want to avenge his death.

Also I felt disappointed that Kevin Spacey did not play a more active role in the film. There is an air about him in these roles that makes you want to watch him perform on and on and on...

Matthew Ryan Hoge does however makes his presence felt with this film. I am sure there will be better ones to come.