film reel image

film reel image

Friday, September 27, 2013

Lethal Weapon 1987 * * * * Stars

The above picture is the title image for the film Lethal Weapon Director: Richard Donner
Year: 1987
Rating: R
Rating: * * * * Stars
Cast: Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Gary Busey

With visceral, breathtaking action sequences and a shockingly good performance from Aussie bred Mel Gibson, Lethal Weapon stands as possibly the greatest buddy cop film ever made. After three star making performances in the Mad Max movies, Gibson (as suicidal cop Martin Riggs) built a whole new character niche for himself here. He is paired with the perfectly cast Danny Glover (L.A.P.D. Sergeant Roger Murtaugh) and the two of them become involved in taking down a ruthless drug dealer/murderer of the daughter of one of Murtaugh's closest friends.

The very popular Lethal Weapon franchise went on to produce three more sequels. The fact that the first one stays away from the comedic element (this was overdone on the next 3 installments), makes it more atmospheric, more tension-filled, and vehemently more effective. Watch out for Gary Busey (a.k.a. Joshua) as a side villain who's pure, nasty fun. Richard Donner of The Goonies and Superman fame directs at a fast, workmanlike clip.

Written by Jesse Burleson

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