Raw Deal (1986) – Movie Review

Get ready for high-octane action with our Raw Deal movie review, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as an undercover FBI agent taking down a notorious mobster. Read on for our expert analysis of this 1986 crime thriller.

Overview

Raw Deal, released in 1986, is an action-packed crime thriller starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mark Kaminski, a rough-around-the-edges FBI agent with a penchant for getting the job done. Directed by John Irvin and produced by Martha De Laurentiis and Dino De Laurentiis, this movie promises to deliver high-octane thrills, intense action sequences, and a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia.

Plot Summary

Mark Kaminski, a former FBI agent, finds himself kicked out of the agency for his unorthodox methods. He takes up a new role as the sheriff of a small town in North Carolina, but his quiet life is disrupted by FBI Chief Harry Shannon. Shannon’s son has been murdered by the notorious mobster, Luigi Patrovita (Sam Wanamaker), and he wants Kaminski to take him down. The deal is simple: take out Patrovita, and Kaminski gets reinstated into the FBI.

To accomplish this, Kaminski must go undercover and join Patrovita’s gang, adopting the alias Joseph P. Brenner. As he infiltrates the organization, he finds himself in a world of crime and corruption, where loyalty is a luxury he can’t afford. With the help of Monique (Kathryn Harrold), a feisty and charming woman, Kaminski must navigate the treacherous landscape of organized crime and bring Patrovita to justice.

Cast and Performances

Arnold Schwarzenegger shines as Mark Kaminski/Joseph P. Brenner, bringing his signature charm and charisma to the role. His physical presence and action hero credentials make him a compelling lead, and he delivers on the film’s promise of high-octane action. Kathryn Harrold provides a strong supporting performance as Monique, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to her character.

The supporting cast, including Sam Wanamaker as the ruthless Luigi Patrovita and Paul Shenar as the cunning Paulo Rocca, add depth and complexity to the story. Robert Davi, as the ruthless Max Keller, provides a memorable performance as Patrovita’s right-hand man.

Direction and Production

Director John Irvin brings a sense of grit and realism to the film, capturing the intensity and brutality of the world of organized crime. The screenplay, penned by Norman Wexler and Gary DeVore, is taut and well-paced, with a narrative that expertly balances action and suspense.

The production values are high, with a strong attention to detail in the costume and set design. The score, composed by Chris Boardman and Albhy Galuten, adds to the film’s tense and foreboding atmosphere.

Visual Effects and Cinematography

The film’s cinematography, handled by Alex Thomson, is sleek and polished, capturing the gritty realism of the film’s setting. The visual effects, although not groundbreaking by modern standards, are effective in conveying the intensity and chaos of the action sequences.

The film’s use of practical stunts and pyrotechnics adds to the sense of realism, making the action sequences feel more grounded and intense. The combination of cinematography and visual effects creates a visually stunning film that holds up well even today.

Final Verdict

So, if you’re looking for a classic 80s action movie with a healthy dose of nostalgia, look no further than Raw Deal. With its blend of intense action, suspenseful plot twists, and memorable performances, this film is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

Check out Raw Deal on IMDB and read more reviews from other critics. Have you seen Raw Deal? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!

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