gavin6942 Hit man Cleve approaches writer Dennis about a story for his next book: how he made a living, working for one of the most powerful politicians in the country. To get the story right, they travel around the country to gather statements and evidence, while strong forces use any means they can to keep the story untold.Larry Cohen wrote the original script, inspired by the film "Strangers on a Train" (1951) and wrote it with Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas in mind for the lead roles. The project was in development at a number of studios for years before Orion decided to make it. Of course, by then, Lancaster and Douglas were getting a bit old.Apparently Cohen has mixed feelings on how his script translated into the finished product. That is his right, but really this is a strong film and really deserves much more acclaim than it generally gets. Not perfect, but still a darn good film with two wonderful leading men.

AaronCapenBanner James Woods plays a hit man named Cleve, who contacts a successful true crime author & former cop Dennis Meechum(played by Brian Dennehy) who got his start after he was the sole survivor of a deadly holdup at the police evidence department years earlier. Cleve wants Dennis to write his life story, which he feels is most interesting, and as a way to get back at his former employer, a powerful corporation he helped build. Meechum is intrigued but also skeptical, so Cleve takes him on a tour of his past, both with his parents and also his "assignments". Dennis learns that Cleve has a deeper connection to him than he realizes, and that some powerful forces don't want this proposed book published...Little-seen thriller is quite well done, with fine acting by the leads, and efficient direction and story. Almost goes wrong toward the end with the expected violent finale, but is still exciting enough to compensate, with the well-plotted story unfolding most effectively.Worth catching on DVD.

christopherleebrick This is a thoroughly enjoyable B movie that came and went quickly from the big screen back in the late 80's. I happened to catch it then--and now own it in my movie collection. Woods plays Cleve, a brilliant and perhaps psychotic former hit-man, who wants Dennis, a cop turned author (Brian Dennehy), to write his story. He also wants to expose his former employers. Cleve ensures Dennis that the book will be a "Best Seller" and begins taking Dennis on a lurid tour of his former hits.Like most films, this doesn't transfer quite as well onto the small screen, but it is still well worth the viewing; (plus you get to hear James Woods warble a tune in French). Actually, Woods is way cool in this film, and delivers some of his most compelling work ever. Brian Dennehy pulls off the tough task of making the writer character equally interesting and compelling. An unlikely buddy film that has plenty of action, makes you care, and quite simply--works.

[email protected] This is a great movie. James Woods is brilliant as is Brian Dennehy and they work extremely well together. The plot is original. It moves quickly the one regret I have in regard to the movie is that it wasn't longer. The way Dennehy's character bonds with Wood's character despite the intense anger he feels towards him is very well done. What makes the movie great is the performance of both actors. It would be nice to see them in another project together. The supporting actors all do a great job as well. The late Paul Shenar was very good as Madlock. The pace of the film varies but I think that works well for it. Sadly the DVD version doesn't have any special features.