Let's talk about what Sharkskin 6 is not. It's not Brokeback Mountain. It's not Syriana, The Constant Gardener, or even Rent. It's not an examination of the evils of society, the enduring beauty of love, or the strength of human resolve. It will not join the fray of brooding indie films, casting dark glances at each other from across the room and vying to be reviewed as the most "poignant" and "breathtaking". In the context of these somber films, many of which were admired by many but watched by few, Sharkskin 6 is a little bit of an outcast. And thank god.
I caught it when it played at a horror film festival (it was out of place, but better than anything else at the festival) and loved it. It was not the kind of funny that comes from punchlines and crass jokes, a la The 40 Year Old Virgin, it was just funny. The cast's plan, and the cast themselves, are senseless and doomed. King provides plenty of situations that lend the opportunity to chuckle at his characters and enjoy the spirit of conspiracy. There are underlying themes of friendship and reconciliation, written in such a way that they seem real rather than overdone. Best of all, it's retro.
Give it a chance. It's fun.