Review of The Stunt Man (1980) by Kevin R — 14 Feb 2013

We all dig a little violence.

A Vietnam veteran who is a fugitive from the law stumbles onto a movie shoot shortly after their stuntman dies. The director quickly identifies the veteran's issues and coaxes the him into replacing his stuntman. The veteran initially finds the opportunity to make some money and avoid the law a dream come true; however, when he starts working for the director, things may not be as good as they seem.

"Just like in the movies.".

"I am in the movies.".

Richard Rush, director of Color of Night, Freebie and Bean, Hells Angels on Wheels, The Savage Seven, Thunder Alley, and Too Soon to Love, delivers The Stunt Man. The storyline for this picture is interesting initially but drags on a little as the love story unfolds. The action scenes are solid and the acting is very good. The cast includes Peter O'Toole, Steve Railsback, Barbara Hershey, Adam Roarke, and Sharon Farrell.

"Remember your ass. It is just like mine. Maybe I can save it.".

I came across this movie on Turner Classic Movies (TCM) and had to DVR it. I was surprised a movie with this plot from 1980 was airing on TCM and had to watch it to figure out why. I will say the character development was solid and the end unfolds well; but as an overall picture, it is just okay. This is worth a viewing and a unique picture in the drama genre.

"...and those Mickey Mouse faces on the wall...".

Grade: B.