In the same year Josh Brolin first appeared as Thanos, cementing his place in comic book history, he also showcased a surprising comedic talent in the film Inherent Vice, starring alongside Joaquin Phoenix. This dual achievement highlights the actor’s range, while bringing renewed attention to the unique tone and cast of Inherent Vice. The film’s blend of dark humor and mystery illustrates Brolin’s ability to balance intensity with levity.
The Dramatic Rise of Josh Brolin to Prominence
Josh Brolin’s career trajectory stands out among his peers, especially given the challenges many teen stars face in their transition to serious acting. After his early success in The Goonies, Brolin struggled to find equally engaging roles. However, the early 2000s saw him deliver memorable performances in acclaimed films such as W., American Gangster, No Country For Old Men, and Milk, the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. His breakthrough as the villainous Thanos in Guardians of the Galaxy boosted his visibility, but it was his performance in Inherent Vice that revealed an unexpected comedic side.
Josh Brolin’s Character: Detective Bigfoot in Inherent Vice
Inherent Vice follows private investigator Larry “Doc” Sportello, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue involving missing people in the San Fernando Valley. Josh Brolin portrays Los Angeles Police Department Detective Christian F. Bjornsen, nicknamed “Bigfoot.” Although initially skeptical and opposing Doc’s unorthodox methods, Bigfoot eventually forms a reluctant alliance with Doc after consulting with Doc’s lawyer, Sauncho Smilax, played by Benicio del Toro. This partnership sets the stage for a tangled investigation that delves into conspiracy and eccentric characters.
Brolin’s portrayal of Bigfoot adds a layer of emotional depth to the film, highlighting the character’s vulnerabilities beneath a tough exterior. Bigfoot mourns the death of his partner, killed by loan shark Adrian Prussia, and his pursuit of justice drives him through the investigation. His restrained sadness contrasts with the film’s comedic elements, rooting his character in genuine human experience rather than caricature. Bigfoot’s role highlights the film’s message that justice is complex and sometimes elusive, yet meaningful when it prevents further suffering.
The Complex Chemistry Between Bigfoot and Doc
Josh Brolin and Joaquin Phoenix share dynamic on-screen chemistry, which is central to Inherent Vice’s mix of humor and tension. While Phoenix’s Doc is often erratic due to substance use, Brolin delivers his lines with deadpan seriousness, creating a comedic contrast. The film features several exaggerated performances from actors like Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Hong Chau, and Martin Donovan, but Brolin’s grounded and consistent approach offers a steadying presence.
Bigfoot’s character could have easily led a more conventional crime drama, but Inherent Vice subverts genre expectations by centering on Doc’s chaotic misadventures. Their interactions, filled with odd yet insightful exchanges, give the film a unique rhythm that combines stoner philosophy with mystery. Brolin thoughtfully navigates Bigfoot’s narrative arc, refusing to glorify the flawed cop but instead showing the character’s complexity and earnestness.
Their evolving relationship culminates in humorous moments, including a scene where Bigfoot imitates Doc’s distinctive behavior, showcasing physical comedy rarely associated with Brolin. Initially confusing to some audiences, Inherent Vice has since gained recognition as a cult classic, admired for its originality and the balance between Phoenix’s flamboyant lead and Brolin’s sincere supporting role.
The Lasting Impact of Inherent Vice on Both Actors’ Careers
Inherent Vice is as much about unlikely friendships and mutual understanding as it is about a neo-noir mystery. Brolin’s portrayal of Bigfoot contributes significantly to the film’s emotional core, complementing Phoenix’s vivid performance. The film’s complex narrative and tonal shifts might demand multiple viewings, but its charm lies in the chemistry among the cast and the unpredictable turns of the plot.
For Josh Brolin, this role demonstrated that even as he reached new heights with Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he could still surprise audiences with a nuanced and funny performance in a smaller, character-driven film. Inherent Vice remains available for streaming on HBO Max, inviting new viewers to discover this distinctive blend of comedy and mystery.
