Review of Jagged Edge (1985) by Craig T — 21 Jan 2011

Richard Marquand is able to take a common premise and mold a new work of art in his exciting mystery. He captures performances that are swift and precise by a gifted cast. Jeff Bridges is accused of murder, Glenn Close plays his lawyer who begins to fall in love with her client, and Robert Loggia plays her seasoned detective friend.

All three roles are portrayed with natural talent. These characters appear to be real people with real lives and not flashy stars in disguise. Close has a realistic routine that includes a sociable relationship with her ex-husband as well as the duty of being a mother.

Although we may feel that she is being foolish in getting involved with Bridges, we see that the man she is attracted to is quite powerful. Bridges is comfortable being the wealthy and charming suspect whose role deepens with time.

On a separate level, Loggia was nominated for an Oscar for his supporting role as the boozing but expert detective. He is fierce and yet we see he has much compassion for his lawyer friend. What ties all this together is the great writing by Joe Eszterhas (Basic Instinct).

This is perhaps his best effort and teamed with the director that gave us Return of the Jedi, the stage is set for the actors to unfold a real nailbiter. There is genuine shock and intrigue in what Marquand summons in Jagged Edge's courtroom.

The suspense stays between the lines and cuts deep right through to the final scenes. (B).