Striking Distance MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -3

Tom Hardy (Bruce Willis) is part of a close-knit family of Pittsburgh police that includes his uncles, two cousins and his father. His father is killed in pursuit of a serial killer and his partner and cousin, Nick Detillo (Dennis Farina), commits suicide. Tom feels guilty for both deaths, and he leaves the homicide department to work on the river as police patroller. In time, he gets a new partner, Jo Christman (Sarah Jessica Parker), and the two start back on the trail of his father's killer. In the usual style of buddy-cop movies, Tom and Jo do not get along at first but find that they must rely on each other. A lot of violence, car chases and tough one-liners from Tom try to spruce up the otherwise tired plot of this unimaginative movie. Though there may be a few surprises along the way, there is not enough to keep STRIKING DISTANCE entertaining for very long.

True to the form of the current action adventure movies, this one includes a lot of unnecessary violence. Its opening scene shows a fast-paced car chase where several police officers are killed as their car explodes. The escapades of a serial killer and several victims are shown as they are dragged out of the river or heard screaming before they are shot or strangled. Several people are shot at close range, and one man is hit in his face with the butt of a gun. A hand held stun-gun, which emits a high-powered electric shock, is also used several times on people. There are two scenes of intercourse with no nudity although both are scantily clad. The language is offensive with many obscenities and regular profanities. The underlying idea that evil left untouched only festers is buried by the uncalled for violence, atrocious language and sexual situations. It seems best, therefore, to keep your distance from this mediocre offensive movie.

Preview Reviewer: Greg Wilson
Distributor: Columbia Pictures, 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232