Willful art gallery dealer Lacy (a sound performance by the lovely Catherine Oxenberg) goes to a dreary remote hamlet in Montana to seek out the work of obscure mute reclusive painter Sean (well played by Eric Roberts, who manages to project tremendous charm and warmth despite the fact he hardly speaks for most of the movie). Meanwhile, a vicious killer bumps off various women in the immediate area. Director Robin P. Murray, working from an involving script by Mick Davis, relates the compelling story at a steady pace, makes fine use of the bleak, wintry, fog-shrouded Montana landscape, creates and sustains a genuinely spooky mysterious atmosphere, and astutely nails the grim vibe of the dead-end sleepy small town setting. This film is given an extra lift by the solid acting from a capable cast, with especially praiseworthy work by Rod Steiger as the brutish and fearsome Ben, Scott Plank as the resentful Ethan, Joan Benedict as flaky, but friendly shopkeeper Moira, and Ellina McCormick as Lacy's sarcastic gal pal Polly. Moreover, there's an interesting and provocative theme about how long-suppressed tragic events from the past have a significant devastating impact on the present. Irv Goodnoff's handsome cinematography gives the picture an impressive polished look. The spare moody score by Mister Potts further enhances the eerie tone. Worth a watch.
Review of The Flying Dutchman
