F/X

F/X is a thriller/action film that first graced the cinema in 1986. The film, which merges suspense, thrills, and action, was directed by Robert Mandel, showcasing his aptitude for developing engaging plots and snappy dialogues that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie stars Australian actor Bryan Brown, alongside Brian Dennehy and Diane Venora, whose compelling performances significantly contribute to the cinematic charm and intensity of the film.

F/X delves into the world of special effects, also known as F/X in the movie industry, hence the movie's title. Bryan Brown plays the character of Rollie Tyler, a master of special effects in the cinematic industry. Tyler is a charismatic and inventive individual who can create trickery at its best that warmly hails the intersection of deception, illusion, and reality.

To his surprise, Tyler is given an unusual task by the US Department of Justice. Faced with the challenge of faking the death of a mafia informant named Nicholas DeFranco, who is played by Jerry Orbach, Tyler is plunged deep into a clandestine operation. In doing so, he must utilize all the techniques he has mastered in his career in the film industry – from creating illusions to inventing incredibly realistic special effects, crafting a truly riveting spectacle.

As the plot unravels further, Tyler discovers that he has been positioned as a puppet in a dangerous game, manipulated by cunning individuals with nefarious intentions. His special effects expertise, initially used to bewilder and daze movie audiences, now becomes his lifeline, pushing him to devise methods to fight in real-life danger.

Brian Dennehy plays Leo McCarthy, a tough, shrewd, and seasoned cop. McCarthy believes that much more lurks beneath the surface of DeFranco’s death. Driven by instinct and his pursuit for truth, he goes against the tide, probing into a case that his superiors have already closed. His character lends a distinctive flavor to the movie, demonstrating a tenacious spirit that is relentless in its pursuit of justice.

On the other hand, Diane Venora plays Ellen, Tyler's former flame. Her magnetic performance adds to the emotional depth of the storyline, especially as the narrative unravels the dynamics between Ellen and Tyler.

The movie’s strength paradoxically lies in its focus on illusion and reality. By diving deep into the behind-the-scenes world of moviemaking through the lens of special effects, the film intriguingly explores how these otherwise extravagant loads of make-believe can become tools in the real world. The narrative effectively illustrates the line between fiction and reality, making the audience question what is genuine and what is fabricated.

F/X is laden with numerous action sequences, thrilling chases, and explosive moments. However, it goes beyond being a mere action flick by entwining elements of mystery and intrigue into its plot. Furthermore, the film's theme is underscored by an intelligent script that keeps you guessing till the end, coupled with tight direction that ensures a gripping pace.

The movie’s cinematography enhances the action sequences and plot. Meanwhile, the music score, courtesy of Bill Conti, not only complements the film’s tone in moments of tension, excitement, and surprise, but also amplifies the storyline's emotional dimensions.

All these elements combine harmoniously to make F/X a movie worth watching. It’s a unique cinematic voyage into the world of illusions, false realities, and survival; a world where things are not always as they seem. Without revealing too much, the movie successfully envelops you in its nerve-racking suspense and keeps you engrossed until the very end, delivering a satisfying cinematic experience that is a blend of intelligent plotting and pulsating action.