Special (2006)

Les Franken (Michael Rapaport) is a local meter maid who is approved to take part in clinical trials of a new antidepressant. Adverse side effects leave Les convinced that he is developing super powers. Despite his doctor’s behest that Les quit taking the medicine, Les dons superhero threads to fight the evil that maligns the world with very mixed results.

Special is an original idea lacking focus; at only 80 minutes the film is over before you really mind. Part black comedy, part social satire and kind of enjoyable Special is held together by Rapaport’s admirable performance. His portrayal of a mediocre man draws respectable sympathy from the viewer. But his drop off the deep end is befuddling. The oddball-supporting cast offers a few laughs, but in this sad tale everything seems out of place including them.

As I see it, Special isn’t worth your time unless you’re a fan of Rapaport. It’s a solidly mediocre film.