Stick, released in theaters on April 26, 1985 , is an entertaining action thriller based on the 1983 novel by Elmore Leonard that delivers classic 80s thrills.
Burt Reynolds stars as Ernest “Stick” Stickley, an ex-con who gets caught up in a dangerous game involving drug dealers and Miami’s elite. Reynolds brings his trademark charisma and tough-guy persona to the role, making Stick a compelling and watchable protagonist. He navigates the seedy underbelly of Miami with a cool determination that is both engaging and believable.
Candice Bergen shines as Kyle McClaren, a financial consultant who becomes Stick’s love interest. Bergen brings a sophisticated charm to the role, providing a strong counterpoint to the film’s gritty action.
Charles Durning, though sporting a memorable look, plays the antagonist Chucky with a menacing intensity.
George Segal provides a quirky and often humorous performance as the wealthy and somewhat sleazy Barry Braham.
Richard Lawson, Alex Rocco, Dar Robinson and Tim Rossovich round out the cast.
Stick delivers solid action sequences, capturing the vibe of 80s thrillers. The film’s pacing keeps the audience engaged, and while the plot has its share of twists and turns, it remains relatively straightforward.
The Miami setting adds a vibrant and stylish backdrop to the story.
Candice Bergen and Burt Reynolds in Stick (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Reception for Stick
Stick grossed $3.4 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, topping Just One of the Guys ($3.3 million) starring Joyce Hyser, Sherilyn Fenn and William Zabka.
The film would gross $8.5 million in its theatrical run.
Gene Siskel gave the film one-and-a-half out of four stars in his review, saying “What director Reynolds and actor Reynolds have done to ‘Stick’ is inexcusable. They’ve made it part burlesque and part conventional chase picture. Actor Reynolds’ portrayal of Stick, a gritty ex-con out to avenge a friend’s murder, is not much different from his good-old-boy persona in the Cannonball Run films.”
Paul Attanasio in his review said “Universal held up the release of “Stick” for almost a year, and now we know why.”
Legacy
While Stick may not be a critical masterpiece, it’s a fun and satisfying action film. It provides a showcase for Reynolds’s star power and delivers enough excitement and entertainment to make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.
