Rare straight role for Goldie Hawn--no yucking it up here--is a totally serious part, a departure from the rest of her oeuvre. She portrays the happy wife to a husband who dies under supposed tragic circumstances, only for her investigation into his past turning up results she couldn't possibly have prepared for. John Heard is mainly involved in the ending with Hawn doing a lot of the heavy dramatic lifting. This part for Hawn features a rather aching, somber, and frustrated character; learning that your loving husband is a totally completely person, her Adrienne having to come to terms with some harsh realities, the role requires a certain type of disturbed, unsettled, and saddened temperament/response to the developments that transpire during her investigation. Heard's calm and rather ordinary phone call to Hawk, having their daughter in his possession, demanding the jewel necklace, and wanting her not to phone the police (or tell the woman next to her what their conversation's about) proves just how much of a sociopath he really is. Heard does lose it at the end when he must explain to Hawn that he does what is necessary when he has her cornered and seemingly at his mercy. Moody photography is a major plus even if a lot of the Hollywood devices (cat jumping out, pigeons flocking about out the window, the eye peering through the crack of a closet door, the little girl complaining to mommy in horror that a man was in her room) typical in these types of thrillers are used throughout. Doesn't invent the wheel, but Deceived should be of interest to fans of Goldie. The loud sound effects and noisy, obtrusive score, especially at the end when Heard is after Goldie and the necklace, can be a bit overbearing, but I like this change of pace for Hawn, trying a different genre (although, Foul Play was kind of comic thriller), and not relying on her gifted comedy skills must have been a challenge worth taking. Identity theft, so prevalent today, works its way into the investigation revealing Heard for the fraud that he is.
62 Reviews
Formulaic, but watchable...
MarieGabrielle26 October 2006
Goldie Hawn has never been a favorite, I must admit, but that is all the more reason to catch her in the one performance where she is not quirky, superfluous or silly.
The theme of this story has been done before, but thanks to a fine performance by John Heard, the character of Jack Saunders is intriguing and foreboding. John Heard is an underrated actor who adds a somewhat mischievous, ominous and sometimes comical overtone to his roles (You may want to watch him in the earlier 1970's film "Chilly Scenes of Winter", and there was also a film short wherein he portrayed Fortunato, in Edgar Allen Poe's "Cask of Amontillado". He was excellent).
Look for Ashley Peldon as the young daughter; Robin Bartlett, who is underused as Heard's estranged mother, and Tom Irwin, as Hawn's colleague from the art museum. The mystery is enough to keep you watching, and overall Heard's performance makes it all worthwhile. 7/10.
The theme of this story has been done before, but thanks to a fine performance by John Heard, the character of Jack Saunders is intriguing and foreboding. John Heard is an underrated actor who adds a somewhat mischievous, ominous and sometimes comical overtone to his roles (You may want to watch him in the earlier 1970's film "Chilly Scenes of Winter", and there was also a film short wherein he portrayed Fortunato, in Edgar Allen Poe's "Cask of Amontillado". He was excellent).
Look for Ashley Peldon as the young daughter; Robin Bartlett, who is underused as Heard's estranged mother, and Tom Irwin, as Hawn's colleague from the art museum. The mystery is enough to keep you watching, and overall Heard's performance makes it all worthwhile. 7/10.
A Decent Thriller, Although Not Hard To Figure Out
ccthemovieman-12 May 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This is a pretty scary movie in parts with some good camera-work. It's exciting to see a mostly hidden face in the shadows or an eye peeping out of a crack in a doorway, etc. Both lead actors, Goldie Hawn and John Heard (now there's an odd couple!) give credible performances. Hawn is the innocent wife and Heard the deranged killer who uses several identities.
Unfortunately, guessing some of the identities - - particularly the third - isn't that hard and it can lessen some of the suspense for the viewer near the end. There's a nice a chase scene at the end, too. As a male, I get tired of the bad-husband routine Hollywood was particularly enamored with around this era. You know, the "Sleeping With The Enemy" stereotype.
Nothing super, but a passable thriller for one look.
Unfortunately, guessing some of the identities - - particularly the third - isn't that hard and it can lessen some of the suspense for the viewer near the end. There's a nice a chase scene at the end, too. As a male, I get tired of the bad-husband routine Hollywood was particularly enamored with around this era. You know, the "Sleeping With The Enemy" stereotype.
Nothing super, but a passable thriller for one look.
An attractive mystery with some drawbacks.
Poseidon-35 October 2002
Hawn, in an attempt to shed her giggling, airheaded screen persona, chose to make this rather dark thriller. In it, she plays a woman who meets a charming man (Heard) by chance and is soon married to him and enjoying a life of bliss and parenthood (to adorable imp Peldon) while dealing in ancient treasures and jewelry. One day, he finds himself in danger of incrimination for a forgery and from there, the plot takes off in hyper-unreal twists and shocks. Hawn, despite some viewers' carping that they couldn't accept her in this type of role, is excellent. She gives a fully committed, intriguing performance. Heard is also extremely effective in his part. They are both damaged by a script that is just too difficult to fully buy and riddled with plot holes. That said, the film is still quite entertaining as an experiment in audience manipulation. More than once, spine-chilling moments of surprise and terror jolt the viewer, no matter how many times they are viewed. The film is geared for audience reaction, but, unfortunately, the logic of the plot doesn't hold up. It hangs together pretty well for the longest time, then gets way out of hand and is all too typical of the thriller films of this era. There also seems to be evidence of cuts (note the billing, but virtual absence of Straight and Robertson as Hawn's parents and the sudden disappearance of underused Bartlett from the story, though she is fourth billed.) On the plus side is a sumptuous and rich-looking production design and a haunting, exceptional music score from Thomas Newman. Newman uses the lower notes that his father found so useful, but creates a modern, unique sound. Fans who can let go of Goldie's PREVIOUS image should find enjoyment in the film along with those who just like to get jolted. Fans of water-tight, intelligent mysteries are in for a let-down. Sadly, Hawn hasn't really attempted to break the mold again since this, joining people like Bill Murray ("The Razor's Edge") who have had immense trouble breaking free of preconceived notions about their area of talent.
A pretty decent thriller
davispittman12 July 2015
I will say this, Goldie Hawn and John Heard did offer up good performances as the leads. The plot was OK, and the dialogue was pretty good, not anything great, just pretty good. The last about 25-30 minutes was very entertaining and fun, the best part of the whole movie. The middle of the movie did kinda drag on a little, that's why it's not getting a higher review. I do suggest the film as a basic thriller, if you're in need of one at some point, although I do think you could find a better one than this. 6/10 for deceived (1991). Not one of Goldie's best, but definitely not terrible. Oh and one more thing, I did enjoy the actress that played Goldie and John's daughter Mary in the film, I thought she did a great job playing her role.
Hawn is excellent, movie is so-so
tex-4210 May 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Deceived rests totally on the weight of Goldie Hawn's shoulders and she delivers. Goldie plays Adrienne Saunders, a happily married restorationist with a young daughter. Her husband, Jack, is an artifacts dealer whom she met by happenstance years before. Things start going badly for Adrienne when a curator is mysteriously found dead at a museum, and it is revealed that a piece Jack bought for the museum for millions of dollars is a fake. Jack then suddenly dies, and Adrienne comes to find out that her seemingly dead husband was not who he said he was.
There are numerous plot holes in the movie, but Hawn works very well with what she has, and shows that she can more than handle serious drama. John Heard does seem miscast, as he goes from charming to psychotic without ever really establishing what makes his character tick, and why he has done what he did. All in all, a decent movie.
There are numerous plot holes in the movie, but Hawn works very well with what she has, and shows that she can more than handle serious drama. John Heard does seem miscast, as he goes from charming to psychotic without ever really establishing what makes his character tick, and why he has done what he did. All in all, a decent movie.
Who to trust?
kosmasp30 July 2022
I mean who can you actually trust? Yourself? Well hopefully - no pun intended, especially if your mind is gone. But that is not what this is about - and the title already gives us more than a hint where the movie will take us.
Even if not, we would guess it along the way. Actually if you just know the title and have not read upon the story, certain beats may come as a surprise to you. Because you may be questioning everything that happens ... at every turn. Which may be giving way too much credit ... not necessarily in a bad way. Unless you feel it is.
A Goldie Hawn that does the best she can and a husband that does the same ... or do they? Are we the ones being deceived? Just kidding - unless you can't suspend your disbelief that is of course.
Even if not, we would guess it along the way. Actually if you just know the title and have not read upon the story, certain beats may come as a surprise to you. Because you may be questioning everything that happens ... at every turn. Which may be giving way too much credit ... not necessarily in a bad way. Unless you feel it is.
A Goldie Hawn that does the best she can and a husband that does the same ... or do they? Are we the ones being deceived? Just kidding - unless you can't suspend your disbelief that is of course.
Deception
sol-3 July 2016
Concerned that her husband might be having an affair, a middle aged woman begins to investigate his suspicious recent behaviour, only to discover a greater conspiracy than she could have ever imagined in this slick thriller starring Goldie Hawn and John Heard. The film is well known as Hawn's first non-comedy movie, though Heard is arguably more impressive, always seeming just a little bit menacing, even if he goes way over-the-top in his final few scenes. Whatever the case, the film's best asset is Thomas Newman's atmospheric music score, which creates a genuine sense of unease at several key points. As for the story at hand, it is not exactly first-rate. Unresolved plot points and gaps in the narrative abound; Hawn also seems to get hold of all the information she needs with unbelievable ease, whether it be a school records lady bending the rules for her or complete strangers conveniently letting her into their home. The film also overplays its hand a little by including a second unexpected deception by her husband late in the piece that only raises unanswered questions about his true motives and the way his mind operates. If one does not focus too much on story specifics though, the film could be considered a decent ride. There are some very effective chase sequences and suspense scenes in which characters are voyeuristically viewed by an unseen intruder. The novelty of having Hawn in a dramatic role cannot be discounted either. This may have not been the best script for her to highlight her potential as a drama actress, but she is certainly convincing.
Thriller starring Goldie Hawn and John Heard
blanche-25 August 2006
Adrienne and Jack meet, fall in love, marry, have a child, and live in a wonderful New York apartment. Then Jack is killed in a car crash. Slowly, things start to unravel for Adrienne in "Deceived," a 1991 film starring Goldie Hawn and John Heard.
This is a highly derivative movie concerning fake museum pieces, fake identity, and a double life, but it manages to be exciting and occasionally scary. As other people have commented, there are plot holes aplenty. Hawn and Heard are both marvelous in their roles, Hawn for a change in a serious part. She shows she's as talented a "straight" actress as she is a comedienne. The final big scene will keep you on the edge of your seat, and the climax of it is a knockout. This could have been one of the great movies if the script had been tighter because it is very well directed and performed with some excellent camera work and great music.
Despite script holes, I still found it entertaining. I wouldn't have minded paying good money to see it in the theater, and it makes a riveting rental.
This is a highly derivative movie concerning fake museum pieces, fake identity, and a double life, but it manages to be exciting and occasionally scary. As other people have commented, there are plot holes aplenty. Hawn and Heard are both marvelous in their roles, Hawn for a change in a serious part. She shows she's as talented a "straight" actress as she is a comedienne. The final big scene will keep you on the edge of your seat, and the climax of it is a knockout. This could have been one of the great movies if the script had been tighter because it is very well directed and performed with some excellent camera work and great music.
Despite script holes, I still found it entertaining. I wouldn't have minded paying good money to see it in the theater, and it makes a riveting rental.
Interesting thriller.
Peach-223 November 1998
This is an interesting thriller that I thought would be terrible. Goldie Hawn is very good in this film and the direction is solid. The biggest weakness this movie has is that it's too long. Should have trimmed this one down about 20 minutes to make it a little more intense. Not too bad though.
Illegal use of identity
sol121828 November 2005
(There are Spoilers) A bit confusing mystery/drama that's just too overextended to be taken seriously. Adrienne, Goldie Hawn, an antique dealer meets by chance Jack Saunders, John Heard, at a restaurant thinking that he's Adam Lucus the parson she was supposed to meet there.
It at first turned out to be the happiest mistake she ever made in her life with the handsome and charming Jack bowling her over and within the first five minutes she's married and has a daughter with him Mary, Ashley Peldon, celebrating her sixth birthday. It's then when things start to turn sour for Adeienne with Jack's secret life coming to the surface with disturbing and deadly results.
Jack, an antique dealer himself, leaving home one evening for a business trip to Boston to buy some jewelry Adrienne finds out that he was really in New York City and buying womens clothes at a shop on East 53th street but not for her, was he having an affair with someone else? As more evidence starts to arise about Jack's life before and during his marriage to Adrienne it becomes obvious that he's somehow not the person that she's married to! Before Adrienne can get to the bottom of her mysterious husbands background he's killed in a car accident!
After Jack's death Adrienne is called to the NYC Social Securtiy office to find out that her husband Jack Saunders' Social Security number does indeed belongs to a man named Jack Saunders but not the man she was married to! It belonged to a 25 year-old Jack Saunders who was killed in a plane crash in Summerville Nebraska on January 19, 1975 some ten years before she married him! So who was her husbands and what was his real identity?
The second half of the movie "Decived" goes a bit too off course with Jack' life revealed to Adrienne by her finding out that he had a number of different identities as well as wives over the last fifteen years. Jack himself comes back to life to make life hell for his "greiving widow" as well as murdering his mother Mrs. Sullivan whom he deserted to live alone and broke in a Greenpoint Brooklyn tenement. It was only when his mom found out that he was alive, from a talk with Adrienne, that he decided to pay her one last and fatal visit.
Jack splitting into a homicidal lunatic, from the lovable Teddy Bear that he at first was, now turns his insane anger on Adrienne by having her get him a piece of jewelry that his daughter Mary mistakenly gave to her friend some time ago and. that sets up the films heart-dropping final sequence.
A surprisingly good Goldie Hawn makes the film "Decived" work with her far better then one would expect serious acting being that Goldie was almost always in comedy films up until she made that movie. John Heard as the insane but charming Jack Saunders/Sullivan/Sherman, Triple "S" for short, is also good in his role as a human salamander. Jack gives a rousing and exciting farewell speech to Adrienne the audience and , for all we know, the troops before he takes that final one step beyond and disappears into the darkness as well as from Adrienne's and Mary life forever.
It at first turned out to be the happiest mistake she ever made in her life with the handsome and charming Jack bowling her over and within the first five minutes she's married and has a daughter with him Mary, Ashley Peldon, celebrating her sixth birthday. It's then when things start to turn sour for Adeienne with Jack's secret life coming to the surface with disturbing and deadly results.
Jack, an antique dealer himself, leaving home one evening for a business trip to Boston to buy some jewelry Adrienne finds out that he was really in New York City and buying womens clothes at a shop on East 53th street but not for her, was he having an affair with someone else? As more evidence starts to arise about Jack's life before and during his marriage to Adrienne it becomes obvious that he's somehow not the person that she's married to! Before Adrienne can get to the bottom of her mysterious husbands background he's killed in a car accident!
After Jack's death Adrienne is called to the NYC Social Securtiy office to find out that her husband Jack Saunders' Social Security number does indeed belongs to a man named Jack Saunders but not the man she was married to! It belonged to a 25 year-old Jack Saunders who was killed in a plane crash in Summerville Nebraska on January 19, 1975 some ten years before she married him! So who was her husbands and what was his real identity?
The second half of the movie "Decived" goes a bit too off course with Jack' life revealed to Adrienne by her finding out that he had a number of different identities as well as wives over the last fifteen years. Jack himself comes back to life to make life hell for his "greiving widow" as well as murdering his mother Mrs. Sullivan whom he deserted to live alone and broke in a Greenpoint Brooklyn tenement. It was only when his mom found out that he was alive, from a talk with Adrienne, that he decided to pay her one last and fatal visit.
Jack splitting into a homicidal lunatic, from the lovable Teddy Bear that he at first was, now turns his insane anger on Adrienne by having her get him a piece of jewelry that his daughter Mary mistakenly gave to her friend some time ago and. that sets up the films heart-dropping final sequence.
A surprisingly good Goldie Hawn makes the film "Decived" work with her far better then one would expect serious acting being that Goldie was almost always in comedy films up until she made that movie. John Heard as the insane but charming Jack Saunders/Sullivan/Sherman, Triple "S" for short, is also good in his role as a human salamander. Jack gives a rousing and exciting farewell speech to Adrienne the audience and , for all we know, the troops before he takes that final one step beyond and disappears into the darkness as well as from Adrienne's and Mary life forever.
Goldie Hawn shines
chrystal7106113 March 2012
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is a mystery with plenty of twists, but the real star is Goldie Hawn's performance. I find it hard to believe that she has not done more of this type of movie.
The major problem I had with this movie was the big fat plot holes, namely how you get a car to flip with a dead guy driving or how a guy that works in town gets away with a second family, or if he was Daniel, then who was fencing the rare Egyptian jewelry, or why didn't she fall down the hole too? Too many leaps of faith are expected of the audience and exactly why I did not rate this movie higher. I did, however, enjoy the "New York" ambiance, the sets and the wardrobe (which was not too embarrassing from the early 90's). Goldie could try another hairstyle though, really, it was a little distracting remembering that it has not changed since her Sock It To Me days.
All in all, it was fun to watch and it does jump your heart a few times, just as a good thriller should. Definitely worth watching for Goldie's performance alone.
The major problem I had with this movie was the big fat plot holes, namely how you get a car to flip with a dead guy driving or how a guy that works in town gets away with a second family, or if he was Daniel, then who was fencing the rare Egyptian jewelry, or why didn't she fall down the hole too? Too many leaps of faith are expected of the audience and exactly why I did not rate this movie higher. I did, however, enjoy the "New York" ambiance, the sets and the wardrobe (which was not too embarrassing from the early 90's). Goldie could try another hairstyle though, really, it was a little distracting remembering that it has not changed since her Sock It To Me days.
All in all, it was fun to watch and it does jump your heart a few times, just as a good thriller should. Definitely worth watching for Goldie's performance alone.
A thriller that really is quite OK
roning20 June 2000
You will get some excitement out of this movie, once you stop expecting Goldie Hawn to be funny. I think she could really do more of these "serious" parts and John Heard is also quite convincing. I haven't seen any other films of Damian Harris but I would like to.
Way too formulaic and uninteresting.
Boba_Fett113830 July 2008
This movie was way too formulaic for me to enjoy. It's a very standard thriller by the numbers, that basically doesn't feature anything new or surprising and is one that is like hundred of other genres movies, especially like those made around the same time period.
The movie is not just bad because it's so formulaic, it perhaps is even more due to the fact that the story is just so predictable. Seriously, the big twist? Who didn't see that one coming? It's no surprise, it's predictable and you just wait for it to happen. The movie often also gets quite ridicules. The 'villain' of the movie is basically the worst conman ever. He makes some gigantic mistakes and just does things that make no sense what so ever for the movie its story. Some sequences are obviously put in there to make him look evil but its so pointless all and adds nothing to the story. The movie also made me think like; 'Why didn't the Goldie Hawn character just called, or had gone to the police'. Seriously, there were several occasions in the movie that she could had easily convinced the police of her findings but instead she puts herself and her little daughter needlessly in danger.
It's not like this movie is completely horrible or anything but for a genre piece it isn't anything special enough. It's the reason why you're still better off not watching this movie, even though you most likely won't be bored when you still do so. Even though the story is just bad and filled with way too many questions and plot holes, it's still a fast moving one. The movie feels much shorter than it in fact truly is.
And yes, Goldie Hawn is a good actress but to she seemed out of place in this movie. She of course also isn't helped much by the movie its lacking script. She's just too naive at times and for no reason very cold and distant to the people she herself went to for help, to unravel the movie its 'big and shocking' mystery. The movie just doesn't always make you like her, or care about her character enough. The movie would had also been better of if they didn't cast John Heard. Not that he's a bad actor but it would had made the story perhaps a bit more surprising and at least not as predictable as it is now, if they had cast a more unknown name for the role. Besides, John Heard is a sort of actor that often seems to play the same type of roles in movies and also his looks never seem to change, not even now when he's getting older.
Perhaps only watchable once but even then it's a forgettable one.
5/10
http://bobafett1138.blogspot.com/
The movie is not just bad because it's so formulaic, it perhaps is even more due to the fact that the story is just so predictable. Seriously, the big twist? Who didn't see that one coming? It's no surprise, it's predictable and you just wait for it to happen. The movie often also gets quite ridicules. The 'villain' of the movie is basically the worst conman ever. He makes some gigantic mistakes and just does things that make no sense what so ever for the movie its story. Some sequences are obviously put in there to make him look evil but its so pointless all and adds nothing to the story. The movie also made me think like; 'Why didn't the Goldie Hawn character just called, or had gone to the police'. Seriously, there were several occasions in the movie that she could had easily convinced the police of her findings but instead she puts herself and her little daughter needlessly in danger.
It's not like this movie is completely horrible or anything but for a genre piece it isn't anything special enough. It's the reason why you're still better off not watching this movie, even though you most likely won't be bored when you still do so. Even though the story is just bad and filled with way too many questions and plot holes, it's still a fast moving one. The movie feels much shorter than it in fact truly is.
And yes, Goldie Hawn is a good actress but to she seemed out of place in this movie. She of course also isn't helped much by the movie its lacking script. She's just too naive at times and for no reason very cold and distant to the people she herself went to for help, to unravel the movie its 'big and shocking' mystery. The movie just doesn't always make you like her, or care about her character enough. The movie would had also been better of if they didn't cast John Heard. Not that he's a bad actor but it would had made the story perhaps a bit more surprising and at least not as predictable as it is now, if they had cast a more unknown name for the role. Besides, John Heard is a sort of actor that often seems to play the same type of roles in movies and also his looks never seem to change, not even now when he's getting older.
Perhaps only watchable once but even then it's a forgettable one.
5/10
http://bobafett1138.blogspot.com/
Goldie in a Great Serious Role
Petunia-219 January 2000
Goldie Hawn dropped her bubbly personality to play the serious role of Adrienne, who is happily married, living in an upscale apartment, and has a lovely little girl. Jack Heard plays her devoted husband, Jack, or is he? As Adrienne's world crumbles, Goldie really makes you feel for her. I cannot describe details of the movie without giving away too much for the first-time viewer; it is one of those movies that after you see it once, you cannot watch it again for awhile because you know all twists and turns in the script. I will tell you this; Goldie is terrific in comedies and she was terrific in this one--she did a lot of acting with her eyes and gestures with her body; soon the viewer is on her side and aching to find out what is really going on. Jack Heard plays a good s.o.b. Robin Bartlett, best known for her turn in tv's "Mad About You" only has a few lines, just like in "City of Angels" and as usual, Robin's performance stays with you after the film has ended. Great acting by all; my only complaint is that the film is a bit too long.
Some Clunkiness and Familiarity but Worth a Watch
LeonLouisRicci14 August 2016
Goldie Hawn and John Herd aspire to make this a Thrilling Thriller but are Deceived by a Script that Promises much more than it Delivers in Terms of Storytelling or Cinematic Surprises.
Truth is the Story is Unbelievable and Unconvincing with its Contrivances Sabotaging Logic and it "Twists" so Telegraphed that the Result is a Resounding Thud.
It's a Watchable Movie with just Enough Professionalism to Propel it to its Standard Chase Ending that in the Warehouse (Yikes) goes on for ever. Hawn is up for Her Dramatic Turn and Herd is Creepy even when He isn't Playing a Certified Creep, so that Helps.
The Cute as Pie Daughter may have too much Screen Time that gets in the way of the Rhythm, but is Well Cast and She does some Fine Acting of Her Own. She is the Driving Pathos of the Narrative but it is Heavy Handed.
Worth a Watch but be Prepared for Familiarity and Clunkiness. It's all just too Average and Apparent on the Surface to be Totally Satisfying.
Truth is the Story is Unbelievable and Unconvincing with its Contrivances Sabotaging Logic and it "Twists" so Telegraphed that the Result is a Resounding Thud.
It's a Watchable Movie with just Enough Professionalism to Propel it to its Standard Chase Ending that in the Warehouse (Yikes) goes on for ever. Hawn is up for Her Dramatic Turn and Herd is Creepy even when He isn't Playing a Certified Creep, so that Helps.
The Cute as Pie Daughter may have too much Screen Time that gets in the way of the Rhythm, but is Well Cast and She does some Fine Acting of Her Own. She is the Driving Pathos of the Narrative but it is Heavy Handed.
Worth a Watch but be Prepared for Familiarity and Clunkiness. It's all just too Average and Apparent on the Surface to be Totally Satisfying.
Filling time
ss124-661-3821116 July 2018
Warning: Spoilers
OK, what we have here is a totally predictable movie with so many plot crevices that it should be a lesser vote.
Goldie and Heard do am excellent job. The little girl was adorable.
Why bother adding an extra wife. Is she the director's girl friend. Or was it to add an extra five minutes to the movie. Useless.
A Fatal Attraction for Goldie
wes-connors30 June 2013
New York art restorer Goldie Hawn (as Adrienne) is seemingly stood-up on a blind date. This works out well, however, because Ms. Hawn eventually hooks up with likewise attractive museum curator John Heard (as Jack Saunders). He happened to be at the location, then shows up in her workplace. It's a whirlwind romance. Hawn's character appears to be smart, but love is blind. If you stop and think about this set-up, it doesn't make sense. Prepare yourself for even greater stretches of the imagination. Five years (at least) pass quickly and without much incident. With a sudden death at the museum, the plot thickens...
Instead of "explaining" the coincidental nature of the co-stars getting together, we suspend disbelief and proceed. To fill missing plot details in "Deceived" might take another hour. This well-produced, formula thriller requires leaving part of your brain at the door. The intricate story, by Mary Agnes Donoghue, is better than it plays; it might have been more intriguing and suspenseful to play down a pivotal character's status as a jewel thief and play up his status as a psychopath. Also, Hawn needs stabbing target practice. Kate Reid has a marvelous cameo, but Beatrice Straight barely appears. Damian Harris keeps you alert.
****** Deceived (9/27/91) Damian Harris ~ Goldie Hawn, John Heard, Ashley Peldon, Robin Bartlett
Instead of "explaining" the coincidental nature of the co-stars getting together, we suspend disbelief and proceed. To fill missing plot details in "Deceived" might take another hour. This well-produced, formula thriller requires leaving part of your brain at the door. The intricate story, by Mary Agnes Donoghue, is better than it plays; it might have been more intriguing and suspenseful to play down a pivotal character's status as a jewel thief and play up his status as a psychopath. Also, Hawn needs stabbing target practice. Kate Reid has a marvelous cameo, but Beatrice Straight barely appears. Damian Harris keeps you alert.
****** Deceived (9/27/91) Damian Harris ~ Goldie Hawn, John Heard, Ashley Peldon, Robin Bartlett
Well-produced suspenser looks great but has very little going on...
moonspinner558 December 2006
Damian Harris directed this instantly forgettable, one-box-of-popcorn thriller starring Goldie Hawn with a very stylish eye--he really pours on the dizzying visual tricks--but a handsome, well-produced piece of trash is just that: trash. Hawn, toning down her upbeat persona, is curiously thoughtful and tense playing a woman whose husband has just died in a mysterious car accident; little by little she discovers he wasn't who he seemed to be. Gaping plot-holes aside, nothing exciting or substantial is done with this premise. I blame the casting director for the awful child actors in this movie (they are as bad as the tykes you see on TV commercials), but Harris' over-expanded finale--a foot chase--doesn't do Hawn or John Heard any favors either. Crack screenwriters Mary Agnes Donoghue and Bruce Joel Rubin are responsible for the achingly slim script, while the final freeze-frame of Hawn looking wistful is humorously self-defeating. There's nothing so terribly thoughtful about "Deceived". *1/2 from ****
Who is Daniel Sherman?
jjnxn-123 April 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Is this the most innovative movie to ever come down the pike? No. Is a great deal of its appeal style over substance? Yes. But sometimes that's not a bad thing.
Solidly acted thriller with a much more serious Goldie Hawn than usual. Watching it you get a sense that the Goldie you're watching is much closer to the private woman than the delightfully ditzy girl that was her stock in trade.
Since the story is set in the rarefied world or museums and authenticators the settings are often plush and well appointed. However even though the main couple's home is very swank they apparently live in the most slowly renovated building in the world.
Lead by Goldie all the performers give strong performances although, excepting John Heard, most of the roles are quite secondary.
A decent thriller with an easy to figure out mystery at its core this is still quite a lot of fun thanks to committed work from all involved. A nice showcase for Goldie Hawn, who get a chance to uses pieces of her talent not always in evidence.
Solidly acted thriller with a much more serious Goldie Hawn than usual. Watching it you get a sense that the Goldie you're watching is much closer to the private woman than the delightfully ditzy girl that was her stock in trade.
Since the story is set in the rarefied world or museums and authenticators the settings are often plush and well appointed. However even though the main couple's home is very swank they apparently live in the most slowly renovated building in the world.
Lead by Goldie all the performers give strong performances although, excepting John Heard, most of the roles are quite secondary.
A decent thriller with an easy to figure out mystery at its core this is still quite a lot of fun thanks to committed work from all involved. A nice showcase for Goldie Hawn, who get a chance to uses pieces of her talent not always in evidence.
It's not a bad try, but...
highwaytourist25 June 2007
It never completely gets you involved. Oh, it does start out on a suspenseful note. The idea is very clever- a successful, attractive New York woman meets the man who seems to be Mr. Right (a successful artifact dealer), and their marriage is everything she hoped it would be, until he suddenly and mysteriously dies. But when she looks into his background, she finds that what she knew about him turns out to be false, and he may have been involved in criminal activity. Also, the music and visual style set the right mood. And Goldie Hawn, not known for film roles like this, gives a respectable performance. But as the film moves along, it becomes increasingly confusing and unbelievable, finally reaching a ridiculous ending. In fact, the closing scene is so confusing, it's hard to tell where it takes place. It looks like someone with a great deal of talent but a short attention span got bored with the film and rushed it to an ending because he was sick of it. Too bad, because it had great promise.
Deception in your diet sir?
hitchcockthelegend25 September 2010
Deceived is directed by Damian Harris and written by Mary Agnes Donoghue & Bruce Joel Rubin. It stars Goldie Hawn & John Heard with music by Thomas Newman and Cinematography from Jack N. Green. Plot sees Hawn as a New York art restorer who finds her world is not as it seems after the unexpected death of her husband (Heard).
Effective "straight" acting from Hawn in a so so thriller that promises more than it delivers. That Harris' movie never succeeds where other similar themed thrillers have is down to the unadventurous script. Which is a shame because tonally, visually and aurally the film is a triumph. There's a heavy weight of familiarity that hangs over the piece and we yearn for the story to step up a grade and give us something new. We can accept implausibilities, some of which are just stupid here, if the story takes us in an unexpected direction, sadly Deceived reverts to type right down to the cat & mouser chase finale that closes with complete absurdity.
As "Sleeping With The Enemy" proved (released the same year as Deceived), there is, and always will be, a market for well budgeted thrillers. Particually when led by good female character actors. Yet Deceived commits one of the ultimate sins against a supposed "heroine" character, it makes her look, well, dopey. The little twists and turns have a Hitchcockian feel to them, but they just come off as contrived. Thus as Hawn goes about unravelling the mystery that's come about after the can of worms is opened, the shock value is mostly tepid.
Great scoring from Newman and atmospheric photography from Green help to create the illusion this is a better film than it actually is. Even Heard deserves a pat on the back for managing to not let the script bog his acting down as he makes the character work. But this is mostly forgettable stuff and can't be recommended with confidence. 5/10
Effective "straight" acting from Hawn in a so so thriller that promises more than it delivers. That Harris' movie never succeeds where other similar themed thrillers have is down to the unadventurous script. Which is a shame because tonally, visually and aurally the film is a triumph. There's a heavy weight of familiarity that hangs over the piece and we yearn for the story to step up a grade and give us something new. We can accept implausibilities, some of which are just stupid here, if the story takes us in an unexpected direction, sadly Deceived reverts to type right down to the cat & mouser chase finale that closes with complete absurdity.
As "Sleeping With The Enemy" proved (released the same year as Deceived), there is, and always will be, a market for well budgeted thrillers. Particually when led by good female character actors. Yet Deceived commits one of the ultimate sins against a supposed "heroine" character, it makes her look, well, dopey. The little twists and turns have a Hitchcockian feel to them, but they just come off as contrived. Thus as Hawn goes about unravelling the mystery that's come about after the can of worms is opened, the shock value is mostly tepid.
Great scoring from Newman and atmospheric photography from Green help to create the illusion this is a better film than it actually is. Even Heard deserves a pat on the back for managing to not let the script bog his acting down as he makes the character work. But this is mostly forgettable stuff and can't be recommended with confidence. 5/10
Enjoyable, Twisted & Extremely Well-Paced
seymourblack-131 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
The immediate reaction to watching this stylish psychological thriller is to question why Goldie Hawn didn't feature in more movies of this type. Her seemingly natural ability to convey the types of shock, confusion and distress that her character feels as she uncovers some of her husband's long-held secrets is extraordinary and equally impressive is the way in which she displays a combination of strength and vulnerability that's absolutely convincing. At various points in the story, she shows fear, determination and horror as she gradually recognises the full extent of her husband's treachery and in so doing, highlights aspects of her talent that were never able to be shown in her numerous comedy roles.
Goldie Hawn isn't the only reason for watching this movie, however, as it's also well-directed visually strong and frequently suspenseful.
Adrienne (Goldie Hawn) is a successful art restorer who meets museum curator Jack Saunders (John Heard) at her workplace. This is an apparent coincidence, as the night before, at a restaurant, she'd mistaken him for the man she was supposed to be meeting on a blind date where she was stood-up. The couple get married and for six years enjoy what seems to be the perfect marriage. Things change though, after one of Jack's colleagues, who was examining an ancient Egyptian necklace at the time, is murdered and Jack believes that the finger of suspicion is being pointed at him.
Around the same time, Adrienne finds various pieces of evidence which indicate that Jack had lied to her about his whereabouts etc. but her smooth-talking husband always manages to come up with some sort of explanation. After one such occasion, they argue and a little while after he leaves their apartment, she's informed by the police that he's been killed in a car accident. Some time later, through some information that she's given by her social security office, it comes to light that Jack had been using a false identity for many years and so Adrienne decides to carry out her own investigation to discover the truth about the man she knew as Jack. This puts her and her five-year-old daughter in great danger as she gradually uncovers the staggering scale of her husband's duplicity.
John Heard does well as the very conventional and respectable-looking Jack and conveys his character's combination of superficial charm and coldness very effectively. The threatening atmosphere that builds up as the movie progresses is also skilfully developed with Adrienne being placed in locations (dark corridors etc.) which accentuate her vulnerability and director Damian Harris having some fun by startling his audience at various junctures with the help of a screeching cat and some fluttering pigeons etc. "Deceived" may not be ground-breaking material but it is very enjoyable, nicely-twisted and extremely well-paced.
Goldie Hawn isn't the only reason for watching this movie, however, as it's also well-directed visually strong and frequently suspenseful.
Adrienne (Goldie Hawn) is a successful art restorer who meets museum curator Jack Saunders (John Heard) at her workplace. This is an apparent coincidence, as the night before, at a restaurant, she'd mistaken him for the man she was supposed to be meeting on a blind date where she was stood-up. The couple get married and for six years enjoy what seems to be the perfect marriage. Things change though, after one of Jack's colleagues, who was examining an ancient Egyptian necklace at the time, is murdered and Jack believes that the finger of suspicion is being pointed at him.
Around the same time, Adrienne finds various pieces of evidence which indicate that Jack had lied to her about his whereabouts etc. but her smooth-talking husband always manages to come up with some sort of explanation. After one such occasion, they argue and a little while after he leaves their apartment, she's informed by the police that he's been killed in a car accident. Some time later, through some information that she's given by her social security office, it comes to light that Jack had been using a false identity for many years and so Adrienne decides to carry out her own investigation to discover the truth about the man she knew as Jack. This puts her and her five-year-old daughter in great danger as she gradually uncovers the staggering scale of her husband's duplicity.
John Heard does well as the very conventional and respectable-looking Jack and conveys his character's combination of superficial charm and coldness very effectively. The threatening atmosphere that builds up as the movie progresses is also skilfully developed with Adrienne being placed in locations (dark corridors etc.) which accentuate her vulnerability and director Damian Harris having some fun by startling his audience at various junctures with the help of a screeching cat and some fluttering pigeons etc. "Deceived" may not be ground-breaking material but it is very enjoyable, nicely-twisted and extremely well-paced.
Goldie Hawn Is Superb, Heard Is Not.
slightlymad221 November 2014
Plot In A Paragraph: Adrienne (Goldie Hawn) and Jack Saunders (John Heard) have a perfect marriage, but Adrienne begins to suspect Jack of an affair when he is spotted in New York when he is supposed to be out if town. All of that is forgotten when her world comes crashing down after the death of Jack in a car accident.
Deceived starts off very good and gets even better before it sadly becomes ludicrous, predictably ludicrous in fact. I've always had a soft spot got Hawn, as I used I have a crush on her as a kid things like "Private Benjamin", "Wild Cats", "Best Friends" and "Overboard" had me smitten and when I saw her again on "Bird On A Wire" the year before this, I knew I still had a thing for her, despite her advancing years. Anyway here she is excellent in a different type of role. She pretty much carries the movie on her own. Sadly the same can't be said for Heard. He ridiculously over acts. Ashley Peldon (The young Pheobe Cates from "Drop Dead Fred") is good as their daughter. In fact she puts in a better performance than Heard.
It's a shame it ended so poorly as it started so well.
Deceived starts off very good and gets even better before it sadly becomes ludicrous, predictably ludicrous in fact. I've always had a soft spot got Hawn, as I used I have a crush on her as a kid things like "Private Benjamin", "Wild Cats", "Best Friends" and "Overboard" had me smitten and when I saw her again on "Bird On A Wire" the year before this, I knew I still had a thing for her, despite her advancing years. Anyway here she is excellent in a different type of role. She pretty much carries the movie on her own. Sadly the same can't be said for Heard. He ridiculously over acts. Ashley Peldon (The young Pheobe Cates from "Drop Dead Fred") is good as their daughter. In fact she puts in a better performance than Heard.
It's a shame it ended so poorly as it started so well.
Too simple thriller
Maziun21 June 2014
Good performances by Goldie Hawn (In a rare non-comic role) and John Heard. The movie is quite well directed and moves along nicely. The final showdown in the movie has a quite memorable and surprising scene. I didn't notice plot holes or mistakes.
It doesn't change the fact that this is too simplistic and too predictable thriller. I was able to figure out the "twists" , so no surprises here (with an exception of one scene). The scary scenes are also very cliché. What is the point of watching a thriller when you know what is going on and what is going to happen ? I wasn't bored however and at least my intelligence was respected. Almost a decent time killer. I give it 3/10.
It doesn't change the fact that this is too simplistic and too predictable thriller. I was able to figure out the "twists" , so no surprises here (with an exception of one scene). The scary scenes are also very cliché. What is the point of watching a thriller when you know what is going on and what is going to happen ? I wasn't bored however and at least my intelligence was respected. Almost a decent time killer. I give it 3/10.
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