Fade to Black
Fade to Black

Movie spotlight

Fade to Black

1980
Movie
102 min
English

A shy, lonely film buff embarks on a killing spree against those who browbeat and betray him, all the while stalking his idol, a Marilyn Monroe lookalike.

Insights

IMDb5.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes33%
Director: Michael TuchnerGenres: Thriller, Horror, Mystery

Plot Summary

A lonely, uninspired film projectionist named Richie Connors becomes obsessed with a movie star and begins to live out fantasies inspired by classic Hollywood films. His obsession escalates, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, leading him to adopt various cinematic personas to enact revenge on those who have wronged him. As his grip on reality weakens, he transforms into a suave, heroic figure from the silver screen.

Critical Reception

Fade to Black received mixed to negative reviews upon its release, with many critics finding its plot confusing and its horror elements unconvincing. While some acknowledged its unique premise and atmosphere, the film was largely seen as a flawed attempt at a psychological thriller with horror elements.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film's premise of a man living out movie fantasies is intriguing but ultimately underdeveloped.

  • Peter Fonda's performance is a highlight, but it can't save the convoluted plot.

  • The film struggles to balance its thriller and horror elements, resulting in an uneven tone.

Google audience: Audience reception for Fade to Black is generally lukewarm, with many viewers finding the film's narrative confusing and its horror elements lacking in impact. Some appreciate the unique concept and Fonda's performance, but overall it is considered a flawed and somewhat forgettable thriller.

Fun Fact

The film's director, Michael Tuchner, also directed the TV movie 'The Lady from Yesterday' and episodes of 'The Waltons'.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

**_When reality imitates cinema_** This comes in the tradition of prior films like “Psycho,” “Willard” and “Don’t Go in the House,” all of which involve a troubled loner who lashes out at society. The twist here is that the misfit (Denni...