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Bad Influence
1990 99 min United States of America R 16+
★6.5
Thriller
Director: Curtis Hanson
Trailers
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EN
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Description
Wimpy young executive Michael is about to get pulverized by a jealous boyfriend in a bar when a handsome, mysterious stranger steps in—and then disappears. Later that night, Michael runs into a stranger on a pier, who wheedles his way into Michael's life and turns it upside down.
Budget:
$7M
US Gross:
$12.63M
Worldwide:
$12.63M
Starring
Rob Lowe
Actor
James Spader
Actor
Palmer Lee Todd
Actor
Awards
1 win & 1 nomination total
Key opinion
Bad Influence is considered a competent and engaging 1990s thriller that benefits from the strong chemistry and performances of its leads. While some viewers appreciate its tight construction and psychological themes, others note that the narrative becomes predictable as it moves into its second half.
| Acting | James Spader delivers a compelling and believable transformation from a timid clerk into a more confident, darker figure. | |
| Acting | Rob Lowe effectively portrays a charming yet sociopathic villain whose presence provides the film with its necessary menace. | |
| Score | Trevor Jones' soundtrack and the film's 90s atmosphere are well-integrated and enhance the overall experience. | |
| Direction | Curtis Hanson demonstrates a refined directorial style that captures the tension of a 'yuppie in danger' thriller. | |
| Pacing | While the film maintains a solid pace early on, the narrative loses steam and becomes predictable during the second half. |