The Four Deuces
This is a tongue-in-cheek crime melodrama that became a 'Late Late Show' fixture in the 1980s, according to the DVD sleeve, Jack Palance plays Vic Morono, a high-ranking Prohibition-era mobster with a weakness for women who is waging an ongoing war with rival hoodlum Chico Hamilton (Warren Berlinger). Vic falls for gorgeous blonde Wendy (Carol Lynley). The film's title refers to the name of his speakeasy, and to his gang, which consists of himself, Wendy, and a brace comic-relief hoodlums. The Four Deuces opens with cartoon credits, and attempts a stylish comic strip look. Expecting some wit upon seeing the name Don Martin in the credits will drive you stark raving nuts - this is not the cartoonist who worked for "Mad" magazine. Light bondage and female flesh scenes might have upped ratings for those 1980s "Late Late Show" airings. Perhaps most notable is the that Ms. Lynley and Mr. Berlinger worked much more memorably together in the stage and film versions of Blue Denim
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1920s New York, mob enforcer Frank Meller attempts to protect a young woman named Rita from a dangerous crime boss. As Meller gets increasingly entangled in the criminal underworld and his own violent past, he finds himself in a desperate struggle for survival.
Critical Reception
The Four Deuces received a mixed to negative reception from critics, often cited for its convoluted plot and uneven tone. While some performances were noted, the film struggled to find a cohesive narrative or engage audiences effectively.
What Reviewers Say
- The film suffers from a confusing narrative structure.
- Performances are inconsistent, with Jack Palance's portrayal being a notable aspect.
- Lacks the gritty realism or stylish flair expected of a crime drama.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'The Four Deuces' is largely unrecorded or unavailable through public Google review data.
Fun Fact
The film features an early, albeit small, role for Robert De Niro, who would go on to achieve significant critical acclaim in the following years.
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