Lovely, but jaded and promiscuous barmaid Liz Kelly (well played to the sultry hilt by the enticing Michelle Johnson) marries Steve Dixon (late, great villainous character actor supreme Brion James in peak brutish form), the wealthy, yet mean, jealous, and possessive owner of a logging camp. Complications ensue when the bored and lusty Liz falls for hunky new lumberjack Ted (a likable portrayal by the handsome Billy Wirth). Director Russell Mulcahy, working from a bright and inspired script by Richard Christian Matheson, relates the engrossing story at a constant brisk pace, offers a flavorsome evocation of the back country location, and tops everything off with a wickedly amusing sense of spot-on pitch-black humor (the gruesome conclusion with both Liz and Steve receiving their just nasty desserts is simply sidesplitting in an admittedly sick sort of way). James, Wirth, and Johnson all do sterling work in the lead roles, while Dan Martin lends able support as the hearty Snar and Tony Pierce has a nice bit as sleazy hick Banjo. The delicious Ms. Johnson makes for a marvelously sexy and predatory femme fatale (her cynical narration adds a nifty noirish touch), and, best of all, she even does an extremely tasty topless scene. Rick Bota's sharp cinematography provides a neat slick and sunny look. Brian May's spare shivery score likewise does the shuddery trick. A fun show.
Review of Split Second
