“It’s just a little thing called murder.”
synopsis
In sweltering Florida, small-time lawyer Ned Racine begins an affair with the seductive Matty Walker. As their relationship intensifies, they plot to murder her wealthy husband. But as events unfold, Ned begins to realize he may not be the mastermind he imagined himself to be.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Neo-noir done right. It’s essentially a modernized Double Indemnity, but it doesn’t feel like a copy. The heat is palpable — the sweat, the lust, the laziness. Kathleen Turner is devastating as Matty: cool, calculating, and devastatingly calm. The film embraces classic noir fatalism while giving it 1980s sensuality.
Late-night viewing.
Heat outside.
Distrusting charm.
Absurdist's Corner
A man believes he’s orchestrating the perfect crime while clearly being choreographed.
fun facts
Lawrence Kasdan was accused of borrowing heavily from Double Indemnity — he didn’t deny the influence.
Kathleen Turner became an overnight star after this performance.
The film’s sexual intensity was bold for early 80s mainstream cinema.