Burt Reynolds' charisma keeps this mystery thriller from director Michael Crichton on an almost watchable level against all odds. The most glaring problem is Theresa Russell's record-breaking non-acting. She has absolutely no rapport with either the camera or the lines she's delivering, and needless to say the chemistry between her and Reynolds is non-existent. Now, I've seen miss Russell giving brilliant performances in the past (see her opposite Dustin Hoffman in Straight Time, for instance), so her so-called "work" here is nothing short of a mystery. The plot is actually less of a mystery - because the so-called conundrum surrounding the Reynolds' character seems constructed and isn't very well unfolded by Crichton. Reynolds and his old buddy Ned Beatty do what they can with what they have, but they're struggling to stay afloat on a sinking ship. This one is only for die hard fans.
Review of Physical Evidence
Physical Evidence
(1989)
Reynolds' charisma not enough to save Crichton's sinking ship
18 August 2023