The Running Man (KTLA Tuesday at 8...
The Running Man (KTLA Tuesday at 8 p.m.), a 1987 sci-fi thriller, mixes predictable high-tech action with galvanically- mean satire. In a futuristic America, the state’s enemies (including Arnold Schwarzenegger) are tracked by cartoonish assassins before live audiences in an outrageous game show hosted by Richard Dawson. Ultra-violent, ultra-fast, ultra-slick.
Carlito’s Way (KCOP Tuesday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m.) is right down the middle of the road, and that is something of a surprise. A mid-level 1993 commercial thriller, it is a solid and acceptable if not overwhelmingly exciting piece of work from a star and a director not previously known for their centrist tendencies. For both Al Pacino and director Brian De Palma (“Scarface,” “The Untouchables”) are folks who ordinarily spend as much time hanging far above the rim as any NBA all-star. This 1993 film lacks the energy and originality to make a lasting impression. Released early from a prison sentence because of the work of attorney David Kleinfeld (Sean Penn, all but unrecognizable) in exposing the state’s use of illegally obtained evidence, Pacino’s Carlito Brigante tells the judge that after 25 years on the street he is finally rehabilitated. But as a former legend in the East Harlem drug trade, he not surprisingly finds it difficult to leave his past behind.
Angie (KTLA Friday at 8 p.m.), a 1994 release, is an unapologetic star vehicle and its every moment is crafted to announce Geena Davis’ arrival at the top. As a feisty Italian-American resident of Brooklyn whose unexpected pregnancy brings on the usual journey of self-discovery, Davis gets to do a lot--and does it well. As a vehicle to display Davis’ talent, “Angie” can’t be faulted, and neither can the actress’ pumped-up performance as a woman in the process of harnessing her emotional strength.
Crisply directed by Jack Smight, the 1966 Harper (KCOP Friday at 8 p.m.) is a satisfying detective mystery starring Paul Newman in the title role, boasts a host of other stars and is; based on Ross MacDonald’s Lew Archer novel “The Moving Target.”