The January Man
The January Man

The January Man

1989Movie97 minEnglish

Nick and Frank Starkey were both policemen. A scandal forced Nick to leave the force, now a serial killer has driven the police to take him back. A web that includes Frank's wife, bribery, and corruption all are in the background as Nick tries to uncover the secret of where the killer will strike next, and finally must lay a trap without the police.

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Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes43%
Google Users61%
Director: Pat O'ConnorGenres: Comedy, Crime, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

Ed, a charming but disgraced former police officer, is called back to duty when a mysterious serial killer begins a series of murders across New York City during a heatwave. Known for his unconventional methods, Ed is tasked with catching the killer before the city succumbs to panic. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he finds himself entangled with the city's elite and facing his own past demons.

Critical Reception

The January Man received mixed reviews from critics, who often praised the performances, particularly Kevin Kline's, and the film's slick production. However, many found the plot convoluted and the blend of comedy and thriller elements to be uneven.

What Reviewers Say

  • Kevin Kline's energetic performance is a highlight.
  • The film struggles to balance its comedic and suspenseful tones.
  • Visually stylish but narratively flawed.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's humor and Kevin Kline's charisma, but many found the plot confusing and not entirely satisfying.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to be a more straightforward thriller, but elements of dark comedy were added during production.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
GenerationofSwine

GenerationofSwin...

This is one of those rare films about a serial killer that isn't so much about the killer himself as it is how the law enforcement officer tracks him down and arrests him. And that perspective is always welcome, especially here because it t...
tmdb28039023

tmdb28039023

The January Man initially feels like a thriller, opening with a woman being strangled to death, which segues to the mayor of New York City discussing the murder, the eleventh in as many months committed by a serial killer who uses a blue ta...