6. BEST-SELLER (action, 1987) In 1972, Policeman Meechum (Brian Dennehy) survives an armed robbery, which in turn inspires him to write a book about his ordeal. It becomes a best seller. Years later he meets Cliff (James Woods), a mysterious loner who saves his life. Cliff knows many personal things about Meechum's life and tells him that he can provide him with another assured best seller. In order for Meechum to believe him, Cliff takes him on a tour of his previous work as a hit-man. An uneasy alliance is formed, as Cliff's darkest secrets reveal his own.
Critique: There are many reasons to like Best-Seller. It has a good, entertaining premise (a rogue assassin on the loose), the moody cinematography (another Adam Greenberg job), and displays a strong performance from the always reliable Brain Dennehy. But best of all, it has what I consider to be James Woods' best role to date.
This capriciously underrated 1-time character-actor has given excellent performances in many films including: the sleazy TV-producer in David Cronenberg's interesting, albeit obscured masterpiece 'Videodrome' (1983), his red-neck southerner in 'The Onion Field' (1979-his breakthrough film), and in Oliver Stone's sadly neglected 'Salvador' (1986- for which he received an Academy Nominee).
In most of his films, Woods has specialized in playing low-life has-beens, who have few redeeming qualities. The only fault I saw in his earlier roles was immaturity, and the lack thereof of making his characters work. In Best-Seller, he plays it cool. The character of Cliff knows what he wants and how to get it, and proves himself worthy of Meechum's respect. What better actor to give us a tour through the life of a criminal, hit-man, sleaze-ball, all-nice guy?
QUOTES: Cliff: "Will power is what distinguishes the amateur from the professional. Do you have it Dennis? Will power?..Let's hope so."
