Impulse

Impulse, directed by Sondra Locke and released in 1990, is a hybrid crime and psychological thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film is a potent blend of intense action, suspense, and compelling character development, driven by the performances of Theresa Russell, Jeff Fahey, and George Dzundza.

Russell, known for her roles in visually stunning and psychologically complex films, convincingly embodies Lottie Mason, a Los Angeles police detective grappling with the moral dimensions of her job. She lives in a dark, dangerous world, filled with violence, deceit, and corruption. Struggling with her own vices and a stressful job, she's a complex character with deep personal issues that we get to explore throughout the film.

Impulse builds on this by thrusting her into a possibly career-ending predicament. After an undercover operation goes wrong, hard-nosed cop Lottie Mason becomes entangled in criminal activities. Suddenly, this tough-as-nails detective finds herself on the other side of the law. As Lottie descends into a confusing world of crime and deception, she must use all her investigative skills to extricate herself, not just from the criminal accusations, but also the mental and emotional toll it takes on her.

Meanwhile, Jeff Fahey, another 90s icon, plays Stan Harris, a fellow Detective in the LAPD. Harris is assigned to investigate the unsolved murder case in which Lottie finds herself deeply involved. However, he wants to do more than just solve a murder mystery. He senses more than meets the eye with Lottie and intuitively investigates her possible involvement in the crime. This subplot creates a web of tension between the two detectives adding another layer of complexity to their relationship.

George Dzundza, portraying Lieutenant Morgan, is another incredible addition to the cast. He convincingly plays the diligent boss, burdened by the complexity of the case and the involvement of one of his best detectives. His role provides an added layer of tension and intrigue as he, too, grapples with the possible infiltration of crime within the police department.

Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the movie beautifully paints the pictures of its urban glam mixed with the underbelly of organized crime and police corruption. The cinematic landscape exploits the juxtaposition of harshness and luxury that L.A. represents, making the city just as much of a character of the storyline.

The direction by Sondra Locke is noteworthy for creating a tense, atmospheric thriller. She manipulates light and shadow effectively, reflecting the inner turmoil and darkness of the characters in the aesthetics of their surroundings. This allows the audience to experience the same intensity and unease the characters are discovering in themselves.

The story, penned by John DeMarco and Leigh Chapman, centres on the primal instincts that drive human behaviour. Their screenplay is adept at shifting tones from brooding fear to suspenseful peril, tossing the audience on a roller-coaster ride of mystery and tension. The narrative plumbs the depths of human morality and ethics, challenging the lines between right and wrong, good and evil.

In the end, Impulse is a film that will attract viewers who appreciate intense psychological drama mixed with crime and suspense. With its complex characters, an engaging storyline, adept direction, and a backdrop that fully immerses the viewer in the narrative, the film creates an atmosphere of intensity that leaves an unforgettable impression. Impulse indeed serves as an enticing exploration of morality, corruption, and the human condition under pressure.