Zero Effect

Zero Effect (1998)

  • 64% of critics liked it
    (47 reviews)

  • 73% of users liked it
    (7,398 ratings)

Jake Kasdan made his feature film directorial debut with this oblique thriller about eccentric private detective Daryl Zero (Bill Pullman) and his sardonic front man partner Steve Arlo (Ben Stiller). After the two are hired by blackmail victim Gregory Stark (Ryan O'Neal), Zero sets up a sting… More

Play Trailer

R, 1 hr. 55 min.
Directed By
Jake Kasdan
Written By
Jake Kasdan
Genres
Drama, Art House & International, Mystery & Suspense, Comedy
In Theaters
Jun 1, 1997 Wide
On DVD
Jul 7, 1998
Warner Home Video

Critic Reviews

  • Leonard Klady, Variety

    There's an idiosyncratic talent at work here with the potential to blossom into bigger, better and more accomplished films.

  • Janet Maslin, New York Times

    Both Mr. Pullman and the slyly restrained Mr. Stiller keep their characters entertaining even when Mr. Kasdan's interest is elsewhere.

  • Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

    This is one of those movies that creeps up on you, insidiously gathering power. By the end, I was surprised how much I was involved.

  • Geoff Andrew, Time Out

    Kasdan's is a very promising debut, its own dearth of feeling offset by able writing, engaging playing and a sure sense of pace.

  • Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid

    A strong debut, and a very fun movie.

Read all 11 critic reviews

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

  • Jennifer X


    Starts off a little slow but once it gets going, it really goes. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.

  • familiar s


    A satisfactory entertainer in the veins of Sherlock Holmes.

  • Dean L


    Little seen gem, this sleeper phenom is simply a must watch. Pullman is at his best and the character he creates is simply wonderful to behold. Great performances. Excellent brain teaser. Funny. Intriguing. Watch this movie,...NOW.

  • Aaron N


    Steve Arlo: Why are we talking on the phone? Daryl Zero: I told you. We can't be too careful. Two guys in an airport... talking? It's a little fishy. Very cool comedy-noir film. Bill Pullman stars as Daryl Zero, a detective that predates Monk in being a very quirky… More

  • Michael G


    Started off pretty well, but lost it's oddness as it went on.

Read all 11 featured audience ratings

Cast

See full cast

Trailers & Clips

facebook_logo

Now you can share movies with your friends on Facebook!

  • Discover movies your friends are watching
  • Keep track of what you want to see
  • Add your reviews to your Timeline