I saw Light of Day when it came out in the late 80's and really liked it. But it didn't get great reviews and wasn't a hit but I think it is a very underappreciated film. It stars Michael J. Fox and Joan Jett as siblings Joe and Patti. They live in Cleveland and lead a local rock band called The Barbusters. It was Joan Jett's first and only role in a film. Even though many may say that she was just playing herself, her performance is very good. Fox was very popular after the success of Back to the Future so I'm sure he was cast because of that. I will say that he was miscast. That he just didn't look the part of a rock musician. I kind of agree but his performance is really good and I think it makes up for him not "looking" the part. Of course, it's about a brother and sister in a band going around and playing local dive bars but the film deals with much more than that. Gena Rowlands plays Joe and Patti's mother. She doesn't get along with her daughter at all. Especially, because Patti got pregnant as a teenager and won't tell who the father of son is. They are both very stubborn and strong women. Joe is caught in between of them. Being the good son, but also worshipping his rocker sister. The film is very grounded, it goes for drama without resorting to high melodrama but has some really powerful moments.
Light of Day is not a great film, but it is a solid little drama with worthwhile performances and some really good music.
Grade: B.
Light of Day is not a great film, but it is a solid little drama with worthwhile performances and some really good music.
Grade: B.