

U-Turn
In this Canadian romance, Scott (David Selby) was so smitten by the looks of a pretty girl that he spends years looking for her. He keeps his searches a secret from his live-in lover, whom he stays with the entire while. When Scott actually meets the girl, he discovers that she has been similarly motivated, even though she is married and has had two children in the meantime. They share a romantic assignation and discover that the ideal figure they were each searching for is absent.
Insights
Plot Summary
A Vietnam War veteran, struggling with post-traumatic stress, takes a job as a mechanic in a small, isolated town. His attempts to rebuild his life are constantly challenged by his inner demons and the unsettling atmosphere of the town, leading him into a spiral of paranoia and violence. As his past catches up with him, he must confront the darkness within and around him.
Critical Reception
U-Turn received a mixed to negative reception upon its release, with many critics finding its plot convoluted and its tone inconsistent. Some praised Jack Palance's intense performance, but others felt the film failed to fully explore its themes of PTSD and small-town isolation. Audience reception was similarly lukewarm.
What Reviewers Say
- Jack Palance delivers a powerful, albeit disturbing, performance as a troubled veteran.
- The film struggles with a disjointed narrative and fails to fully capitalize on its psychological thriller elements.
- The dark and unsettling atmosphere of the small town is effectively conveyed, adding to the protagonist's paranoia.
Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available for this film, general audience sentiment suggests it was a polarizing movie, with some appreciating its gritty tone and Palance's acting, while others found it confusing and unsatisfying.
Fun Fact
James Woods, who plays a supporting role, was relatively unknown at the time of this film's release, and his presence foreshadowed his later success in more prominent roles.
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