The film of the week this time is THE STUNT MAN.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081568/

Sorry for the delay with this one. I am moving into a new apartment so things have been a bit hectic. The Stunt Man is a very interesting film in many ways. It has become a bit of a cult hit over the years. It was nominated for best director, actor, and adapted screenplay but it had such a limited release that nobody had a chance to see it. There have been many films made about hollywood, but this one is special. Sometimes it is too hectic for it's own good and Steve Railsback isn't the most compelling actor to watch as a lead. However it is saved by Peter O'Toole being amazing as usual and a twisting narrative that creates a bizarre movie within a movie.

At times it can be tough to follow the plot but once you get into the story it is really fun. Railsback plays a Vietnam veteran who is on the run from the cops. We don't know why at first, but it is explained later. He runs into a film set and hides out as a stunt man who works for a megalomaniac director Eli played by Peter O'Toole. We find out out Eli will do anything to get his film made, including risking the lives of his crew. it is enormous fun to watch, especially when the plot takes several left turns along the way. It sets up a story that seems predictable but it always adds something different to pull the rug out from under your feet. Despite it's flaws I highly recommend it.