I’d heard a lot of good things about this film, mostly on these boards, although nothing specific: just that it was well made. Bought a copy from a bargain bin a few weeks ago, and finally watched it yesterday.
DAYUM!
First of all, it has aged really well. The only jarring anachronisms were all the smoking :eek: and “He was two days from retirement!” But IIRC, in 1985, that hadn’t become the annoying cliche it now is. Oh, and the big clunky sedans. Other than that, though, I’d say it holds up well today: it doesn’t have a big glaring “1985…1985…1985” flashing in every scene. In fact, the opening scene, with the terrorist shouting “Death to infidels! Praise Allah!” right before he blows himself up was a matter of things coming full circle.
Aesthetically, too, I’d expected a lot of cheesy hair and wardrobe, but no one was wearing anything too MTV. Dafoe’s love interest was so stunning, I could hardly keep my eyes from her. And the other dancer was Jane Leeves! :smack: The Wang Chung soundtrack was not annoying, as I’d thought it would be, and I’d never thought much of them, so that says a lot.
And the talent! Willem Dafoe was awesome as always, and I’m amazed that William Petersen still didn’t become a star until CSI. John Turturro rocked, and most of the minor characters had that “I know that guy” air about them.
In and of itself, I was just constantly impressed with how well it was written and filmed. It started out tight and got tighter. And really, there was a time when that was not to be expected. This is right up there with 48 Hours as one of the first “modern” action films. The freeway chase scene blew my mind. It killed me to see Petersen’s character just getting himself deeper and deeper, and I have to say, I didn’t fully sympathize with him. Get some counseling, dude! Also, think he got hit in the nuts enough?
Anyway, just want to thank all who recommended this.
And he got whacked in the nuts at least three times…