“The Last Days of Capitalism” is the wonkier-than-necessary title of Adam Mervis’ latest film. Its two characters do discuss and demonstrate some of the ups and downs of the free market system. But they also talk about philosophy and religion. More so, probably, than the average rich dude and paid prostitute do in a Vegas penthouse.
Like “Pretty Women” or “Indecent Proposal” (or that weird sketch variation of it recently on “Saturday Night Live”), this involves a woman who fulfills her one-night contract with a man only to be offered more money for a whole weekend, then more money for more than that to linger.
What is her price? is the unsavory question; everybody has a price is the appalling implication.
But more telling than their differences on economic systems is how they reflect a certain hollowness in American relationships— the guy will pay top dollar just to hear her real name. She is curious about his backstory as well but doesn’t have similar collateral to put up for it.
Initially, the guy (identified in the credits as Man) claims he’s a successful artist in town for his brother’s wedding, though he seems a little too posh and put together for that bohemian background. Mike Faiola plays him well, as the kind of arrogant handsome galoot she should abandon after throwing his money back in his face if she had any self respect. That her character (of course, Woman) plays along makes us like her less as well, and soon we’re stuck in a Vegas penthouse with two unlikable people for the length of the feature.