Last Dance MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -3

Young attorney Rick (Rob Morrow) has a new job working for the governor on clemency cases. His boss, Sam (Randy Quaid), assigns Rick death row's Cindy Leggitt (Sharon Stone) explaining that the governor wants her executed to prove women get equal treatment under the law. Despite the governor's wishes and Sam's warnings not to become emotionally involved, Rick finds himself attracted to Cindy and discovers a loophole in her case that could save her life. The race against the clock begins. He learns that his client began taking drugs as a young girl and robbed houses to support her habit. Cindy tells Rick the killings were beyond her control, but now she is a different person who spends her prison time doing art work and counseling friends. With its well-written script and fine performances, this lyrical, powerful picture will wring tears from anyone with an ounce of compassion.

Unlike the recent DEAD MAN WALKING, LAST DANCE presents a one-sided look at capital punishment. The convicted killer has changed from a young drug-addicted girl into a caring woman. Yet, in typical Hollywood style, the parents of the victims are one-dimensional, bitter, vindictive Christians from the South who have trouble with forgiveness. As Cindy prepares to be executed, she refuses pastoral comfort, saying, I have everything I need. And Rick confesses, Golf was as close as we came to organized religion in our family. Flashbacks to Cindy's drug experiences and brutal photos of the vicious murders will jar viewers. Images of syringes in the death machine and prison scenes clearly depict the terrifying prison experience. The only other violence is a fight scene between Rick and an inmate. The film's foul language includes 14 obscenities and many moderate crudities, along with several profanities. An unmarried couple is shown once sleeping together. The one-sided look at capital punishment, gratuitous foul language, and negative portrayal of religion make LAST DANCE offensive for discerning audiences.

Preview Reviewer: Theresa Zumwalt
Distributor: Buena Vista Distribution, 3900 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91521