Tequila Sunrise (1988)
An interesting modern film noir written and directed by Robert Towne better known for his screenplay of Chinatown. Dale McKussic (Mel Gibson) and Nick Frescia (Kurt Russell) are attracted to the same woman restaurant co-owner Jo Ann Vallenari ( Michelle Pfeiffer). McKussic (Mac) a former drug dealer is trying to leave his old life behind after he completes one more deal. Nick, a friend of Macs, is the new head of the narcotics unit and suspects that Mac has gone back to his old life. Both romance Jo Ann, one with lies and the other with the truth.
I don't know who is prettier in this movie, Pfeiffer or Gibson. Certainly they are two of the most beautiful faces to inhabit the film world in the 1980's. The cinematographer certainly knows that and films these two stars to their absolute best advantage. Everything in this film is beautifully shot, from the sunsets to the lovely blue eyes on Jo Ann's face. This is a well acted film from the smart characters to the even smarter dialogue. 2/3 of the film works for me and then it falls apart for the last part of the movie. The problem lies with Raul Julia. Such a great actor but in this movie he hams it up especially in the last part of the movie. The final scene on the boat between Gibson and Julia was just cringe worthy. This movie is worth a watch if for the strong acting of the three leads.