Stick

Stick is a 1985 American crime film directed by Burt Reynolds, based on the novel of the same name by Elmore Leonard. The film stars Reynolds, alongside a brilliant supporting cast which includes Candice Bergen, George Segal and Charles Durning, among others.

Reynolds takes on the role of the titular character, Ernest 'Stick' Stickley, an ex-convict trying to stay on the straight and narrow after his stint in prison. However, fate seems to have different plans for Stick when an old friend draws him into a drug deal that goes disastrously wrong. Reynolds masterfully portrays the central character's struggle to keep his life from spiralling back into the world of crime.

Stick gets caught and, despite his intention to stay out of trouble, finds himself embroiled in Miami's dangerous underworld. His encounter with the eccentric millionaire Barry Braham (George Segal) sends Stick on an action-packed journey, towing the line between right and wrong, navigating through murky drug deals and encountering dangerous criminals. While Stick's past continually pulls him into criminal intrigue, the figure of Braham and other characters introduce an exciting world of wealth, power struggles, and risky business.

Candice Bergen co-stars as Kyle McClaren, an interesting character who offers a contrasting perspective to the chaos that swirls around Stick's life. Bergen and Reynolds' chemistry lends emotional depth to the story, bringing in romance and warmth amidst the action.

Despite the movie’s thrilling narrative, it also has its lighter moments. There is always room for humor in Leonard's tale, and in Stick, it is particularly sharp, offering a counterpoint to the gritty action sequences and tension-filled dialogues.

The movie beautifully showcases the distinctive 1980s Miami vibe throughout its runtime. Everything from the wardrobe, the music, to the locations used, all emotionally convey the era and make audiences feel as if they've been transported back in time. The lush Miami landscape is itself a character in the movie, with its glamorous beaches, seedy neighborhoods, and luxurious mansions providing a fitting backdrop to Stick's endeavors.

Reynolds demonstrated his directorial skills in this film, delivering a well-structured and engaging plot. His grasp of the tone and rhythm required for a movie adaptation of an Elmore Leonard novel is evident. The movie thrives on its fast pacing, nail-biting suspense, and sharp turns of the plot that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

In addition, the supporting cast, including names like Charles Durning and Alex Rocco, play crucial characters that enrich the film with their performances. Durning essays the role of Chucky, a dangerous henchman, who adds an element of menace and unpredictability to the plot. Meanwhile, Rocco plays the calculating Firestone, whose interaction with Stick create gripping scenes filled with wit and tension.

Despite being a crime-action film, Stick does not shy away from the emotional elements and human drama that underpin the main characters. There is a deeper exploration of themes like redemption, loyalty, and friendship, and how these values are intertwined and tested within the high-stakes world of crime.

Burt Reynolds succeeds both in front of and behind the camera in Stick, delivering an action-packed, thrills-and-chills crime story. Coupled with a top-notch supporting cast, a plot filled with suspense, and surprising twists, Stick is a movie that is sure to entertain both fans of the genre and movie-goers in general.

In conclusion, Stick is a mesmerizing adventure through the rough and tumble streets of Miami's underworld. It is a crime-thriller packed with suspense, action, wit, and just the right dash of romance, carried through by an ensemble cast. For those new to this film, it provides not only an exciting viewing experience but also a nostalgic trip back to the eighties cinematic scene. So, for anyone who enjoys action-filled crime stories with a heart, this lesser-known Burt Reynolds classic is positively a must-watch!