Dollars en cavale

Quirky low-budget action-comedy with a puzzling script that doesn't bear close scrutiny, but which is enjoyable nevertheless. Bo Svenson plays a first-time bank robber who stashes his loot in a mailbox; Cybill Shepherd is a kooky divorcée who wants a little fun--and part of the action. The film takes place in one day and, within this tight framework, the four credited screenwriters (John Melson, James Edward Grant, Gilbert Ralston and Don Gazzaniga) manage to skillfully create characters who are amusing and colorful. The Vietnam vet angle used at the beginning is weak (it serves as both excuse and apologia for Svenson's bank robbing) and some of the action is poorly staged and filmed (and visually confusing). However, the final heist and car chase is exciting, and Svenson and Shepherd are a nice match. The two don't set off cinematic sparks, but they have an easy camaraderie; Shepherd is relaxed, even soft, while Svenson displays a surprisingly light touch (he's up for just about anything, including impersonating a gay dog-lover). Jeff Goldblum's name is all over the video-box, however his role as a mugger is (thankfully) brief. **1/2 from ****