Stiletto Dance

I've always had a secret appreciation for Eric Roberts films. I think he's an underrated actor, able to do a good job if the script lets him. I also compliment him on being able to pick films that combine his macho action style with intriguing plots and relatively thorough (for the genre) characterization. "Stiletto Dance" is a good example. The story seems at first very simple, but nothing is as it appears. The plot continues to evolve in more complicated ways, but never loses the viewer. There's a romantic sub-plot that makes sense instead of just being an excuse for nudity. The main characters are filled out with motivations and nuances that make them interesting to watch. The film has a basic question to it: "How far can... and should... a police officer go to stop a crime or capture a criminal?" In my opinion, the best thing about the film is that it raises this old question in a very different manner, and leads one to a different conclusion than might have been expected.

"Stiletto Dance" is all about Roberts as a deep cover cop who's inclined to go so "deep" even his own partner doesn't trust him. His mission is to stop Russian mob heavies from getting some red mercury which they need to make a nuclear bomb to nuke Americans. The film features the usual sensationalism (babes, shootouts, blood & guts, brawls, etc.) but fails to distinguish itself even in the B-movie category. Ultimately it plays out like a bad Seagal or Van Damme flick. Only for the most macho-minded couch potatoes. (D+)

Stiletto Dance was a made for HBO movie. HBO is known for its fine and large collection of self-made movies such as: "Rasputin" and "Hostile Waters". This film, while maybe not Oscar material, is a highly entertaining film none the less. The film centers around the Russian mafia of Buffalo, NY. The boss Anton, played by Shawn Doyle,is the most intriguing and entertaining character. This film was my first experience with Doyle, who delievers a marvelous performance. He gives Anton a powerful and dangerous, yet elegant and wildly entertaining personality. Anton's rants are early and often, and provide some of the most amusing elements of the film. Doyle (Anton) makes the littlest actions seem essential, for without him the film wouldn't be nearly as good. Anton is crazy yet calculated in his actions planning to sell a nuclear device to the Albanians for $100 Million. The film leads up to this after showing various examples of "heavy work". Anton plays the field making deals with rival organizations only to later break any and all ties. "You don't trust Anton?" The film also featured Eric Roberts, as the seasoned undercover veteran. Roberts actually does a good job with the role. Bringing together various factors to create a complex and multi-dimensional character. He is a healthy blend of a dedicated officer combined with a more evil, diabolical side. The film plays host to a wide range of action. It offers a more refreshing plot line than similar films. Overall, you will be entertained and amused by this film. Doyle's performance more than warrents a viewing by itself. 3 out of 4 stars.

Though I found the story of this movie to not be so original, it at least was competently told and paced, which automatically makes this effort better than many made-for-video movies. And even though it was low budget, the production values were quite good. The best thing about the movie was the performances, particularly Eric Roberts, who really gets to prove here he is a really good actor, unlike the usual junk he's unfortunately saddled with. Just don't expect a fast-paced rat-tat-tat actioner, and this movie will be satisfying.

I could go into detail but why since there are already over 8 reviews. The main point here is this: the "love interest" of Eric Roberts, I think her name was Melani (the Russsian). That is the most beautiful female actress I've seen in a long time. I looked on IMDb about here and she has done a few Hollywood movies but mostly foreign. What a goddess! Figures most U. S. film makers pass her over in favor of waif looking types like Gwynth Paltrow or others. It is funny how movies in the B category can be so amusing and maybe more entertaining then mainstream movies with their audience tested material aimed at real big sized homogeneous audiences. some of them lose me. Not this one.