Movie spotlight
The Handyman
One of Canada's talented directors, actress Micheline Lanctot expresses an effective, engaging approach in this simple, poignant drama about Armand (Jocelyn Berube), a handyman with one problem romance after another. The quiet Armand settles into Montreal after his wife has left him and before long, he continues the momentum when an ill-considered liaison with a nubile woman ends on her insistence. Next, Armand gives his heart to a frustrated housewife, though this decision is hardly well thought out. In the meantime, a gay man who rents out a room in his apartment has unfulfilled longings directed at the unsuspecting handyman. L'Homme a Tout Faire won a Silver Medal for "Best Picture" at the 1980 San Sebastian Film Festival.
Insights
Plot Summary
A skilled handyman with a mysterious past takes on a series of dangerous jobs in Los Angeles. As he navigates a world of crime and corruption, he finds himself entangled with a vengeful woman and pursued by a relentless detective. He must use his unique talents to survive and uncover the truth behind the dangerous assignments.
Critical Reception
The Handyman is a gritty, low-budget action film from the early 1980s, often categorized as Blaxploitation. While it has a cult following for its raw action and Fred Williamson's stoic performance, it received mixed reviews from critics, with many citing its predictable plot and dated production values. Audiences, particularly fans of Williamson's work, appreciated its straightforward crime narrative and action sequences.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Fred Williamson's iconic presence and effective action sequences.
Criticized for a formulaic plot and low production quality.
Seen as a typical example of its genre, offering straightforward entertainment.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for 'The Handyman (1980)' is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Fred Williamson, known for his tough-guy roles, also directed and co-wrote 'The Handyman,' showcasing his versatility behind the camera as well as in front of it.
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