No Mercy: A Merciless Thrill Ride - A Review of the 1986 Film

Directed by Richard Pearce and starring Richard Gere and Kim Basinger, No Mercy is a 1986 American thriller that takes viewers on a wild ride filled with action, suspense, and romance. In this article, we will delve into the world of No Mercy and explore what makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. We will also examine the review of the film by the renowned critic Roger Ebert, who shared his thoughts on the movie's strengths and weaknesses.

A Brief Summary of the Film

No Mercy follows the story of Eddie Jillette (Richard Gere), a tough and rugged cop who is tasked with escorting a prisoner, Joseph Kojak (Gary Busey), to a courthouse. However, things take a turn for the worse when Kojak's brother, a ruthless and cunning killer, kidnaps a woman, Michel (Kim Basinger), and demands that Eddie bring his brother to him in exchange for her safe return. As Eddie navigates the treacherous underworld of Chicago, he finds himself in a desperate bid to save Michel and bring the kidnappers to justice.

Roger Ebert's Review

Roger Ebert, the late film critic, reviewed No Mercy in 1986, and his assessment of the film is both insightful and thought-provoking. According to Ebert, the film is "a stylish and well-made thriller" that benefits from the strong performances of its leads. He praises Richard Gere's portrayal of Eddie Jillette, describing him as "a cop with a lot of attitude and a lot of guts." Ebert also commends Kim Basinger's performance, noting that she brings a sense of vulnerability and determination to her character.

However, Ebert also criticizes the film for its predictable plot and lack of originality. He argues that the story is formulaic and relies too heavily on familiar thriller tropes. Despite this, Ebert concludes that No Mercy is a "fun and entertaining" film that is worth watching, particularly for fans of action-packed thrillers.

A Critical Analysis

While No Mercy may not be the most original or complex film, it is undoubtedly a thrilling ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The chemistry between Richard Gere and Kim Basinger is undeniable, and their performances bring depth and nuance to the film. The action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, making the film a must-watch for fans of the genre.

One of the strengths of No Mercy is its atmospheric setting. The film's depiction of Chicago's underworld is gritty and realistic, adding to the overall sense of tension and suspense. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with a blend of dark alleys, cramped nightclubs, and rain-soaked streets that creates a sense of claustrophobia and unease.

In conclusion, No Mercy is a thrilling and entertaining film that is sure to appeal to fans of action-packed thrillers. While it may not be the most original or complex film, its strong performances, atmospheric setting, and intense action sequences make it a must-watch. Roger Ebert's review of the film provides valuable insights into its strengths and weaknesses, and his assessment of the film as a "fun and entertaining" thriller is spot on. If you're looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, No Mercy is definitely worth checking out.

So, if you're a fan of thrillers or just looking for a fun and entertaining film, No Mercy is a great choice. With its talented cast, atmospheric setting, and intense action sequences, it's a movie that will keep you guessing until the very end. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride!