Cast
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Arnold Schwarzenegger
as Mark Kaminski / Joseph P. Brenner
Kathryn Harrold
as Monique
Sam Wanamaker
as Luigi Patrovita
Paul Shenar
as Paulo Rocca
Robert Davi
as Max Keller
Ed Lauter
as Baker
Darren McGavin
as Chief Harry Shannon
Joe Regalbuto
as Marvin Baxter
Mordecai Lawner
as Marcellino
Steven Hill
as Martin Lamanski
Blanche Baker
as Amy Kaminski
Louise Robey
as Lamanski's Girl
Victor Argo
as Dangerous Man
George P. Wilbur
as Killer #1
Denver Mattson
as Killer #2
Crew
Director
- John Irvin
Producer
- Martha De Laurentiis
- Dino De Laurentiis
Reviews
John Chard
Because of you a lot of people are dead. And now it's your turn.
Raw Deal is directed by John Irvin and written by Luciano Vincenzoni, Sergio Donati, Gary DeVore and Norman Wexler. It stars Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kathryn Harrold, Sam Wanamaker, Paul Shenar, Robert Davi and Ed Lauter.
A former FBI agent turned small-town sheriff agrees to help the FBI chief infiltrate the Chicago mafia when the FBI chief's son is killed by them.
Something of a forgotten Schwarzenegger vehicle, it's for sure one of his lesser lights from his 80s output, but there's enough brawn and bonkers machismo to make it a fun time viewing. Arnie has been scripted with some trade mark phrases and director John Irvin (Hamburger Hill) stages some exciting action set-pieces. In support it's unsurprising to find Davi yet again oozes vile scumbag charisma.
There really isn't much to it, it's all very much dressage for Arnie to do his thang, so any expectation of credibility is preposterous in the extreme. So really just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the ride. 6/10
Nov 24, 2019
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Raw Deal distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director John Irvin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1986, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Raw Deal took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1986, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Raw Deal shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 10 to Midnight, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Raw Deal subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Zatoichi on the Road and Beyond the Law explore similar territory, Raw Deal stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 6, 1986
- Runtime: 1h 46m
- Budget: $8,500,000
- Revenue: $16,209,459
Where to Watch
