JohnDoe
Bryn
Brenton
Rush (1991)
Rush
DVD Cover
Writer:Peter Dexter
Starring:Jason Patric, Sam Elliot, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Max Perlich, William Sadler, Special K McCray, Tony Frank, Greg Allman
“The closer to the truth it is the easier to remember” – Jim Raynor
Adapted from the harrowing novel by former narc Kim Wozencraft, Rush is a bleak and grimy indictment of the sacrifices and trauma suffered by a pair of undercover cops in the 1970’s out to nail a suspected big time dealer.
Jim Raynor (Jason Patric) is a seasoned, bleary eyed Texas drug agent, at the job a little too long, he has picked up a bad habit or two along the way. Checking in at his small town Police headquaters, he is ordered by Dodd (Sam Elliot) to take on a rookie partner.
“Nettle says its time to sacrifice a virgin” – Dodd
Having his choice straight from the vine he picks the naïve but determined Kristen Cates (Jennifer Jason Leigh). Leaving her past behind, Jim mentors the young and dedicated protégé into a blurred, confusing world filled with addiction, desperation and volatile menace.
You know why your in here don't you. Speed 2, what were you thinking?
John Doe Says:
A 100% pure, uncut syringe of celluloid marching powder that leaves you dazed like you lived it. Kinetic performances take the story to a higher level as the superb blues/rock soundtrack of the time underscores the gritty, visuals.
Focusing on the complexities of the duplicitous work and emotional co-dependence that develops between officers so deep in their alter ego’s that morality is blurred; this is a detailed and authentic film that is affecting.
Lili Fin Zanuck, wife of mega producer Daryl D Zanuck (Jaws) retains a melancholy air of doom in each scene. The purple haze atmosphere establishes an authentic, narcotic tone that brings silver screen truth to everything we see and hear.
The basic plot framework has been seen before but Chris Dexter, the writer of Paris, Trout adapts the dialogue with believable results that are completely reaffirmed by the in-the-moment cast.
Jason Patric (Your Friends and Neighbours, Sleepers, Lost Boys) proves his raw acting talent is superior to many of his contemporaries with this exceptionally intense portrayal. Patric returned with equal success to similar material in Narc, Rush feels like an unofficial prequel in hindsight. How different would the film have been had the Director weakened to studio pressure and hired Tom Cruise, a rumour at the time. (The story has changed to TC had a problem with pretending to shoot smack on screen)
Jennifer Jason Leigh (Last Exit To Brooklyn, Existenz, Palindromes, Hudsucker Proxy, kansas City, Short Cuts) is brilliant, matching her leading man in rendering a focused, true life character. Beyond reproach, all the players are believable. Co stars Max Perlich (Drugstore Cowboy) and Sam Elliot (Big Lebowski, Gettysburg) impressing with their supporting parts.
Underrated, (Try not to use that word often) John Doe couldn’t even find footage on youtube. Back when JD saw this in cinemas he felt certain it would become a classic of the genre. Watching it on DVD in 2007 reaffirms that view, the film could have been made yesterday losing none of its edge with uncompromising style.
The DvD:
Transfer:1:85:1 Widescreen/5.1 Dolby Digital.
Extras:Trailer
In lieu of a "Rush" clip, here is the equally essential "Narc" Trailer
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Intense.
...when Raynor 'debriefs'....oh man...talk about addicted to work!
Thanks for reviewing this JD...I had forgotten how good this film is.
As always your reviews (if I have seen the film) trigger memories...and the memories trigger emotions. This film left me unsettled and frustrated. Can't quite remember why...so need to see it again!
Hope you're having a great week JD.
Dusk
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Film & TV on DVD
Finally it comes back.
Incredible is right, few films carry such committed weight to them.
I'm sure you will be satisfied with how its stood the test of time.
A 100% pure, uncut syringe of celluloid marching powder that leaves you dazed like you lived it. - This should be your Blog Motto!....thanks for the massive compliment.
Things are well , hope yours is the same.
Film & TV on DVD
If you have even a passing attraction to this type of film then it will amaze.
Totally agree, Jason Patric is an amazing actor when given the right part. Opposite Aaron Eckhart in Your Friends and Neighbours was something special.
haven't seen this one John, but from your review, I'm thinking it's worth a look now...
Great review!
Take care,
Nick
Film & TV on DVD
This is an under discussed treasure in the cop genre, well worth your time.
Have you seen Narc?
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Ditto Dusk..you're bringing back all manner of movies I've seen and loved. Thanks!
Film & TV on DVD
You best believe there is plenty more like that on the way.