Pearls Before Swine

| 1999

Directed by: Richard Wolstencroft

Main Plot

"Pearls Before Swine," directed by Richard Wolstencroft, is a dark, avant-garde thriller that delves into the life of a nihilistic hitman named Daniel. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and philosophical musings, the film explores Daniel's existential crisis as he navigates a world filled with corruption, betrayal, and violence. Tasked with a series of morally ambiguous assignments, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with his own existence and the nature of his work. The narrative intertwines his personal reflections with his professional duties, leading to a climactic confrontation that forces him to confront his own beliefs and the consequences of his actions. The film is a stark examination of the human condition, questioning the value of life and the pursuit of meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

Characters

  • Boyd Rice plays Raymond Marble, a sadistic criminal involved in a rivalry with the main character, leading to a series of bizarre and violent confrontations.
  • Nicholas Crawford-Smith is a sophisticated, cunning art thief who manipulates the protagonists into stealing a priceless artifact, only to double-cross them for his own gain.
  • Greg Maxwell is a crocodile character in the comic strip, often part of the inept "Zeeba Neighba" gang, humorously failing in their schemes to capture their zebra neighbor.

Ending Explained

"Pearls Before Swine," directed by Richard Wolstencroft, concludes with a dramatic and intense resolution that encapsulates the film's themes of nihilism and existential despair. The protagonist, a disillusioned hitman named Daniel, finds himself increasingly entangled in a web of violence and moral ambiguity. As the narrative progresses, Daniel's quest for meaning leads him deeper into a world of chaos and betrayal. In the final scenes, Daniel confronts the ultimate futility of his actions and the emptiness of his existence. The climax is marked by a violent showdown, where Daniel faces off against his enemies, culminating in a bloodbath that leaves him critically wounded. As he lies dying, Daniel experiences a moment of introspection, reflecting on his life choices and the consequences of his relentless pursuit of power and control. The film closes with a haunting image of Daniel's lifeless body, symbolizing the inevitable downfall that accompanies a life devoid of moral compass and purpose. This ending underscores the film's bleak outlook on human nature and the destructive potential of unchecked ambition.

Richard Wolstencroft Drama Boyd Rice Nicholas Crawford-Smith Greg Maxwell