Schemes (Video 1994)

In this intricate tale of deception, extortion, and murder, a successful architect learns that although beautiful strangers may be dangerous, it is friends who are deadly. Devastated by his... See full summary »

Director:

Derek Westervelt

Writer:

Derek Westervelt

Stars:

James McCaffrey, Leslie Hope, John Glover

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
James McCaffrey	...	Paul Stewart
Leslie Hope	...	Laura Steele
John Glover	...	Victor Kraft
Polly Draper	...	Evelyn Hayes
John de Lancie	...	Arthur Martin
Debra Mooney	...	Ruby
George Wallace	...	Sam
Allison Mackie	...	Beth Stewart
Henry Marshall	...	Model Designer
Amy Hunter	...	Receptionist
Dan Cashman	...	Insurance Man
Michael John Baker	...	DMV Guy
Thom Barry	...	Nice Junkman
Will MacMillan	...	Mean Junkman
Jessica Cravin	...	Claire

Storyline

In this intricate tale of deception, extortion, and murder, a successful architect learns that although beautiful strangers may be dangerous, it is friends who are deadly. Devastated by his wife's death, Paul begins to emerge from depression when he meets a new woman, Laura. But his newfound happiness is destroyed when his best friend, Evelyn, learns that Laura is a con-artist. Regretting her treachery and trying to redeem herself, Laura discovers Evelyn's violent obsession with Paul. Fighting blackmail and threats by Evelyn and a ruthless former lover, Laura courageously reveals the explosive news that Paul's wife was really murdered.

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Plot Keywords:

partial female nudity | lifetime shower | independent film

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Genres:

Thriller

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Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)

Rated R for language and some sexuality

Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Also Known As:

Bedrägliga pengar

Filming Locations:

Newport Beach, California, USA

Company Credits

Technical Specs

Runtime:

95 min

Sound Mix:

Dolby SR

Color:

Color

Did You Know?

Soundtracks

"One More Dance in the Dark"
Music by Mark Chait
Lyrics by Maya Max

User Reviews

Tightly made and interesting film

This is a very well-made film marked by solid direction and acting. The script is linear, suspenseful and leisurely enough to permit character development. Although James McCaffrey seems rather wan as someone to be desired, performances by John Glover (excellent as usual) and Polly Draper more than make up for him. The scoring was effective and the blocking unobtrusive. Newport Beach was perfectly cast. The ending was more layered than is immediately obvious. Although this effort is underrated and largely forgotten, an opportunity to purchase it will be rewarding.