One False Move

From its extremely violent opening to its High Noon-ish ending, One False Move is a tough hard-edged thriller that skilfully mixes physical violence with psychological tension. Although undoubtedly adding to the 'violence in the movies' debate (Reservoir Dogs, Man Bites Dog et al) One False Move is far more than just a violent film - indeed, it concentrates not on the violence but on the interplay of emotions between the two trios that make up its protagonists. The first group is on its way to Star City, Arkansaw, after murdering a family in a drugs deal. The second, the cops, comprising a local and two guys from the Big City, waiting for them in the aforementioned Arkansaw town. It's just a matter of time till the showdown. The characterization is superb, the performances wonderful, and the ending heart-stopping. One False Move should have been huge. It shou have been bigger than huge. It should have been enormous.

Review by Malcolm Maclaren
Taken from EUFS Programme 1993-94