Bob Rafelson takes a leave of absence from Jack Nicholson with a sexy 80s concept thriller - Theresa Russell is an enigmatic female Bluebeard who knocks off her husbands, while Debra Winger is on the case.
It's a strong concept with two very good actors. Russell's enigmatic beauty and presence was rarely used better and Winger is typically excellent, not afraid to play dowdy so she can transform.
The film feels a little choppy in places - not as confidently put together as other Rafelson movies, I assume because of working for a studio and him trying not to scare anyone.
It really kicks up a gear when Winger and Russell meet, surprisingly late in the piece (around 50 mins or so). These are all great - I wanted more.
A lot of deaths happen off screen - might've been easier to follow if we saw them. There's a little too much time spent on the French guy, Sami Frey - and I kind of wish there was a more mano a mano climax between Winger and Russell instead of them facing off behind bars. They hint at same sex attraction - as Rafelson said they do it as much as anyone could in a studio film then.
Terrific support turns from Nicol Williamson (marvellous as a rich guy besotted by Rssell) and James Hong. Also people like Dennis Hopper, Louis Smith. Mary Woronov and David Mamet have small roles! (Mamet at a poker game).
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