Double Jeu

I agree with Larbo - this is one great film! It took a few minutes to figure out exactly what was going on. Once I did, though, I laughed so hard I cried.

Who said writers are loners? LOL

American Dreamer (1984) *** (out of 4)

I think that this film is one of those 1980s films that seemed to have lived its life only on cable stations, though it really is a light, charming, entertaining fantasy comedy. JoBeth Williams (POLTERGEIST) plays Kathy Palmer, an amateur novelist who wins a writing contest involving a mystery series featuring a detective named Rebecca Ryan. She wins a trip to Paris and while there gets knocked down by a car, develops amnesia, and then believes herself to be Ryan! I know exactly why this film is loved by many people---women in particular---and it's a shame that it didn't get a better reception at the theatrical release. My theory is that many critics at the time thought it was a rip-off of ROMANCING THE STONE (indeed, there are similarities which cannot be ignored), though it really soon goes off on its own path and scores, with a cast that is aiming to please. Tom Conti is delightful as the French chap who gets involved in Palmer's world of craziness, and Giancarlo Gianninni is both hysterical and engaging as the mysterious man who Palmer is determined to track down (as Rebecca Ryan of course).

I've been afraid that this film would never see the light of day on DVD, despite the number of admirers this film has. However, I contacted someone at CBS, Inc. (which produced and released it back in 1984), and they said that in 2005 (no date or even period has been set) it will be released on DVD through Paramount, which is their sister company. I've even sent a letter to director Rick Rosenthal to see if he would be able to a Director's Commentary---many DVD conossiers like me know all too well that Paramount sucks when it comes to putting special features on DVD. So, be ready to see it on the shelves next year!!!

I missed this movie when it first came out, but was lucky enough to have it recommended by a friend.

Everyone has a "down in the dumps" movie--when the boss is a jerk, the spouse is worse and the kids make you wish you had opted for a tank full of tropical fish instead of procreation, you pop in "your" movie and the world balances out. "American Dreamer"--which proves you *can be creative, you *can be inventive, and even being a little crazy is nice, too--will forever be my pick-me-up movie.

Definitely worth renting. (Come on, guys, when do we get a DVD version?!) Spring for the real butter on the popcorn for this one. Trust me, you'll be smiling at the end.

I happened upon this film in the theater as my "second choice" back in '84 when my first choice was sold out. I can't remember my first choice and although I had no idea what this film was about when I went in, I enjoyed it trememdously. Creative, with unusual twists ... but make sure to watch all the way until the 'END'.

Has been one of my favorites ever since ... as I said, it is lite, comical and witty with enough romance and suspense to keep everyone happy. Great for "dreamers," writers, and families (of older children)who just want a fun movie. Enjoy.

I should start by saying that I am pretty easily entertained. I am also a sucker for a romantic comedy. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I thought that JoBeth Williams was absolutely adorable. She was so fun to watch. The directing was very clever. When Rebecca is trying to communicate to Victor that he is in danger and resorts to semaphore with her wrap, I just about lose it every time. If your looking for a light-hearted, romantic comedy, they don't come cuter than this. I would love to see this movie come out on DVD. It would be a welcome addition to my collection. Until then, I'll just have to settle for watching it on the the old Video Cassette Recorder.