Up Against Amanda

This movie was released by Roger Corman, so you know that the filmmakers didn't have much money to work with.

Although, some viewers may miss the subtleties in this movie because of the very typical "obsessed killer" type marketing approach, there are unique differences about this movie.

AMANDA, as played by the obviously talented Justine Priestley, is a complex character. Some people like these movies precisely because the violence can seem random, but here the ramifications of past abuse (dealt with in a realistic but tasteful manner) are what shape the psychosis of AMANDA. Surprisingly, Amanda redeems herself at the end with an act of love, where most of these movies turn into the typical, all out fight to the death and the evil character dies just as evil in the end as to begin with.

Some rough edges in this picture, but I have to give it 7 out of 10 stars based on its thoughtfulness and yes, originality as compared to the usual -- especially on a budget.

This really is quite a tacky movie but it can be forgiven its foibles thanks to a few redeeming features. Justine Priestley is beautiful so all the boys will love seeing her strut around in next to nothing. And hey girls, need hairstyle ideas for your prom? Look no further. The hairstylist on this movie had a field day; Amanda sports an elaborate new hair-do in practically every scene. Amanda is also quite an ingenious little thing. She gives MacGyver a run for his money with a bit of break & enter followed by the installation of fibre optics in a roof. She has gadgets galore (scanner, model dressed like her attached to a light timer, TV hooked up to David's house watching his every move) and a great line she shoots at Buzz when he complains about second-hand smoke: "It's not the smoke that kills you, it's the smoker". Ah Buzz, second-hand smoke is the LEAST of your worries! This was never gonna be an Oscar winner. It's a cheap little "thriller" with a few (unintentional) laughs and Justine is fantastic as the evil bitch posing as the All-American girl-next-door. What guy could say "No" to this babe? David certainly couldn't and ... well, you can guess the rest. 2/5 stars (for effort).

I didn't like this movie I must admit. Actually I really don't understand how I managed to keep awake during the flick.

I know it's low budget, but the cinematics are so annoying, even 'the bold and the beautiful' has better cameraviews. That's what the entire movie reminded me of: one big soapopera.

The acting was not really that bad though. I liked the Buzz character. But the main guy... please don't offer him a job again, unless he improves of course.

The two things that did keep me watching: - the music. Very nice blues style. - the sickness of Amanda. The ending is nicely done. I actually felt sorry for her at that point.

I won't watch it again. Unless the very gorgeous Justine Priestly threatens me to :) i'd be happy to oblige.

4 / 10

KJ

Edge of your seat...hold on ! Smart, sexy and compelling. Fabulous performance from Justine Priestley as Amanda. Prepare to be hypnotized by her. Sex oozes from her like molten lava. She grips you immediately...very tightly, and never let's go until the finish. She is so likeable and drop dead gorgeous ....you'll never take your eyes off her throughout. What a babe!!! You'll want her in every scene and then some. She twists you hard, leaving you feeling good about her evil exploits. Sweet, sinister and boldly intoxicating. Absolutely positively leaves you wanting more and more !Watch it twice!!

The quality of this movie sort of sucked, but Justine's performance was to die for. She played an excellent psycho seductress