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The Last Boy Scout (1991)

Director: Tony Scott

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From Time Out Film Guide

Every element is present and correct in this violent, smart-mouthed, buddy-buddy action comedy, with just enough of an ironic inflection to ensure that familiarity breeds content. Willis plays a washed-up LA private eye whose partner is killed after passing on a case. With his marriage on the rocks and his daughter under threat, he reluctantly teams up with sartorially smooth ex-football player Jimmy Dix (Wayans) to crack the case. Naturally, the initial murder is just the tip of an iceberg, which engulfs major league football, prime-time sports coverage, and the gambling interests of a ruthless businessman (Willingham). Limited though his range is, Willis was born to play this type of role; the bonus here is that his flip smarm is matched by Wayans' suave charm. Despite the testosterone-charged violence and jaw-dropping sexism, the tone is one of self-conscious excess - a strategy which constantly undercuts the film's celebration of male bonding conventions.

Author: NF 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Time Out Film Guide

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Cast & crew

Director: Tony Scott

Producer: Joel Silver, Michael Levy

Cast: Bruce Willis, Damon Wayans, Chelsea Field, Noble Willingham, Taylor Negron, Danielle Harris, Halle Berry, Bruce McGill, Joe Santos full cast

Genre(s): Comedy

Duration: 105 mins

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