The Player

Dir: Robert Altman, 1992 (9*)

Tim Robbins portrays a film producer looking for that "next major project", who, through an anonymous blackmailer who sends him threatening postcards, become involved in a mystery, and his character degenerates into one who may actually stop at nothing to protect his ego and his wallet, and perhaps find love as well; with the always delectable Greta Scacchi in his sights, who could blame him? The Player is a perfect modern complement to Sunset Boulevard, as each presents the cynical and parasitic side of Hollywood and its shallow, self-centered denizens. Robert Altman's best film (?) includes dozens of famous cameos, including 16 Oscar winners.