Tough Guys Don't Dance (1987)
America's Best Known Author [Norman Mailer] brings you the years most controversial movie
I picked up Tough Guys Don't Dance from Vinegar Syndrome. Its a blu ray distributor best known for releasing action, horror, and exploitation movies. Tough Guys Don't Dance was originally produced by The Cannon Group known for over the top horror and action movies like Lifeforce and Deathish 3 (Note: Deathwish 3 is an insane action movie).
Tough Guys Don't Dance is a mystery drama. It seems like an odd choice for both Vinegar Syndrome and The Cannon Group. Maybe a prestige picture for both companies?
The film begins with Tim Madden waking up to find his estranged father in his home and a body in his basement. The majority of the film is flashback scenes where Tim, who drinks heavily and snorts coke, is trying to remember whether or not he is the murderer. The film takes place in Provincetown, an oceanside town in Massachusetts, which is very atmospheric with gray sea fog blanketing the small town.
The film reminded me of Blue Velvet. The film takes the viewers through some seedier sides of American life. Drugs and sex are plentiful and there are moments of violence. Additionally, Isabella Rossellini is in the film and Angelo Badalamenti composed the score. The police chief, played by Wings Hauser, is the film's primary antagonist. The police chief is corrupt, unhinged, and the highlight of the film.
If you like mysteries or David Lynch films, I can recommend Tough Guys Don't Dance.
Rating (out of 5): 💀 💀 💀 1/2