A forgettable attempt to update the classic 1940s private-eye formula to the 1980s, complete with first-person tough-guy narration, duplicitous women, frenemies police officers, corrupt politicians, etc. The script is muddled (a lot of the muddle comes from the fact that Billy Dee Williams does not immediately recognize Morgan Fairchild without her brunette wig; we do, but because he doesn't we have second thoughts), and the direction has close to zero style (it plays A LOT like an extended TV episode), but the film is partly redeemed by the charismatic Williams, the delightful - if underutilized - Vanity, an offbeat sense of humor, and some good stunts (despite the low budget). **1/2 out of 4.
Review of Deadly Illusion
