Little Nikita, released in theaters on March 18, 1988, arrived at the tail end of the Cold War, bringing with it a taut, character-driven story about the dangerous clash between suburban normalcy and deep-cover espionage. Directed by Richard Benjamin, the film successfully marries high-stakes spy craft with an intimate coming-of-age drama, creating palpable tension from its opening scenes.
The narrative begins with Jeffrey Grant (River Phoenix), a typical California teenager with dreams of joining the Air Force Academy. During his routine background check, an anomaly is flagged that captures the attention of veteran FBI Agent Roy Parmenter (Sidney Poitier).
Parmenter has spent years tracking an elusive pair of Soviet deep-cover agents, or “Sleepers,” code-named “Nikita.”
He soon realizes that Jeffrey’s seemingly innocent life is intertwined with his long-cold case.
The film expertly builds suspense as Parmenter must discreetly investigate Jeffrey without alerting the boy – or his parents, played brilliantly by Richard Jenkins and Caroline Kava – to the incredible danger they are all in.
The true strength of the film lies in the dynamic between its two leads.
Poitier brings his signature gravitas and moral authority to Parmenter, playing him as a tired but relentless operative.
Phoenix, in one of his earlier, serious dramatic roles, captures the vulnerability and growing sense of paranoia of a young man watching his entire life turn into a lie.
They are supported by a strong cast, including Richard Bradford as Parmenter’s superior, Lucy Deakins as Jeffrey’s close friend, and a particularly chilling performance from Richard Lynch as the ruthless KGB assassin known as “Scuba.”
Loretta Devine and Jerry Hardin round out the supporting cast.
Poitier and Phoenix would reunite in Sneakers in 1992.
River Phoenix and Sidney Poitier in Little Nikita (Photo/Columbia Pictures)
Reception for Little Nikita
Little Nikita grossed $866,398 on its opening weekend, in limited release of 376 screens.
The film would gross $1.7 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebret gave the film one and a half out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Little Nikita’s legacy is cemented by its tight suspense and its powerful exploration of identity.
The film is remembered as a standout late-80s thriller and a pivotal moment in Phoenix’s career, showcasing his remarkable ability to hold his own against a screen legend like Poitier.
