TAG, The Assassination Game

This first film by ex-John Carpenter collaborator Castle may wear its references too visibly on its sleeve, but at least they're to a disparate group, ranging from Ida Lupino to The Man from UNCLE. Its unusual amalgam of comedy (a battery of amusing supporting characters and absurd situations) and thrills (De Niro lookalike Abbott as a killer who aspires to stylish assassination) blends with a sexy '40s-style romance to produce a pleasingly human thriller. Particularly strong performances make it a perfect entertainment for late-night viewing.