Tuesday, March 3

Wanted: Dead or Alive (1987)


"Fuck the bonus..."


Directed by Gary Sherman
105 Minutes / Anchor Bay / Anamorphic 1.85:1 Widescreen

Rutger Hauer stars as an aging bounty hunter that just might consider settling down after finding stability in a budding relationship. Though a terrorist bombing of a crowded theater announces the arrival of an old nemesis from his past. In order to nail the bastard at the head of these horrid acts; the bounty hunter must strike an uneasy balance with the feds. But when this alliance begins to endanger the ones he loves--all bets are off.

Underrated film that's arguably Hauer's best straight-laced action work. Gene Simmons gets his best role and delivers as a slick and emotionless Islamic terrorist. It's a bit of an odd experience viewing through the lense of our post-9/11 world, but the film isn't heavy at all on political rhetoric. Utilizing the angle merely as something different from the usual Russian or South American action flick baddies of the era.

Director Sherman (Raw Meat, Dead & Buried) proves he can handle action well and throws in enough intrigue to make the story rise above mindless gunfire. Hauer's huge warehouse bachelor studio pad might be the most badass hangout ever complete with Harley's, high tech surveillance, and match grade arsenal. Also needless to say to those who've seen it, you'll remember the ending forever.

Film: 6/10
DVD Picture: 7/10
DVD Sound: 6/10 (Dolby Stereo)

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