Playing God

About This Movie

Playing God is one of those films that kind of slips under the radar. You’ve got a gritty LA backdrop and a central character who's really fallen from grace. Dr. Eugene Sands, played by a scruffy-looking David Duchovny, is intriguing in his conflicted moral compass. The pacing can feel a bit uneven at times, but it captures that chaotic energy of the 90s crime scene well. The supporting cast, especially Timothy Hutton as the counterfeiter, adds dimension to the story. The practical effects, particularly in the medical scenes, have a rawness that feels authentic. It’s not just a crime drama but a study of desperation and flawed humanity. Worth a look if you’re into character-driven stories with dark themes.

Released by Universal Pictures in 1997Filmed on location in Los AngelesFeatures practical effects in surgical scenesDuchovny's early role post-X-Files