Off and Running

Theatrically unreleased action-comedy with Cyndi Lauper playing an actress in Miami Beach who works as a cocktail bar mermaid (don't ask); she gets involved with racetrack low-life after a jockey she's been dating is murdered. Dysfunctional vehicle for the pop star, who's bid for an acting career never gained much momentum due in part to poor choices like this one. Some of the cinematography isn't bad (there's a terrific early shot of Lauper underwater in her mermaid costume); but, without a decent script, Andrzej Bartkowiak's work has nothing substantial to match up with. Supporting cast including David Keith, Johnny Pinto, David Thornton (who soon married Lauper in real-life), Jose Perez and Anita Morris isn't strong enough to help carry the load--and Lauper as an actress doesn't have the screen presence yet to bear the burden of a C-minus picture by herself. *1/2 from ****

I purchased this movie because I'm a die-hard Cyndi Lauper fan. Trying not to be biased, I won't say this is a great or very good film. However, it isn't half-bad. It's TV-caliber. I've seen plenty of TV movies less appealing. The problem with the movie is the script. The storyline isn't ridiculous and there are some thrilling 'chase scenes' where you're hoping Cyndi's character can get away, but it does move along rather slowly and without unpredictability. It's reminiscent of "Gloria" with Gena Rowlands, and later, Sharon Stone. She kinda 'steals' a child runaway to get a guy (Keith David) to help her out after a recent man-encounter is off-ed, and they're all "off and running" from some gangsters. I think Cyndi is a very good actress. She's got the acting ability Madonna can only dream of having. Too bad she hasn't been in the spotlight enough to get more movie offers. She also proved to be quite a comedienne in her Emmy-winning role on NBC's "Mad About You" and, while a small role, she definitely had a strong presence in her dramatic role in "The Opportunists" with Chris Walken. I have a feeling we'll be seeing more of her in TV and movies before she's ready to retire. Overall, I give the movie a 6/10. I give Cyndi an 8/10; so, if you're a fan like I am, check it out. I have to say she's got some pretty sexy outfits, too.

PS If you can, check out a rerun of her appearance on Chris Isaak's Showtime sitcom.

Cyndi was very good in this film. Her acting has come a long way from her performance in Vibes. This film was Cyndi's first dramatic role (well the film has some funny moments) but more so is a thriller then a comedy. The plot is not that good (like Vibes) but for some reason,I like this movie better then Cyndi's debut film. With each project I see her in,she is only getting better.

This is definitely not an intellectual comedy.... however, it is very cute, and definitely worth a view. For all those (which I proudly am!) diehard Cindy Lauper fans and for everyone else, this is a nostalgic and amusing trip. Plus, David Keith adds an additional pleasure. The show is funny, sexy and has a great ending. Check it out, if you need a funny adventure after a hard days work!