Nick Cassavetes

Black Moon Rising - 2/5

This movie is a misguided attempt at a cool action thriller. It relies moderately on its sense of style, which is distinctly outdated, and some of the brief, darker elements of the plot don’t do the lighthearted tone any favors. Both Tommy Lee Jones and Linda Hamilton are unfortunately miscast here. While both are great in their own respective rights, neither has the raw charisma to carry the plodding narrative despite their best efforts.

Content warning: brief female nudity

Closest comparison: It’s like Enemy of the State by way of Blind Fury.

Setting: Espionage
Plot: Heist
Tone: Action

Blind Fury (1989) - 3/5

This movie starts off with high-competence action and ends off with a little too much goofy slapstick. The premise is solid and it’s ultimately a fun ‘80s action romp, though some of the blind swordsman antics are somewhat less than believable. It’s a mishmash of genres which may put some people off, but it manages to tie it together pretty well in the end.

Closest comparison: It’s walking the line between Lethal Weapon and Three Ninjas.

Setting: Road Trip
Plot: On-The-Run
Tone: Action