There’s more than one Black Widow on Disney Plus – you can also check out the neo-noir Black Widow (1987) directed by Bob Rafelson (Five Easy Pieces, The King Of Marvin Gardens). I remember watching this when I was a kid on TV and being a bit underwhelmed – I thought there was going to be more sex and violence, like a 1990s neo-noir/erotic thriller (that, and the third billed actor, Dennis Hopper, is not in it for that long). Watching it now, I was most impressed by cinematographer Conrad L Hall’s magic, the use of lighting and framing in close ups and medium shots, particularly in this remastered HD version available to watch; shades of green, red and blue in the background depending on the scene, very Eighties neo-noir tones. Theresa Russell plays the title character, a master criminal who makes her money by marrying rich men – playing the role of different personas through research and performance – and poisoning them afterwards, claiming their inheritance and moving onto the next mark. Debra Winger is the federal agent who comes across this pattern of deaths and becomes the main investigator. As others have pointed out, this is the rare 1980s neo-noir where the femme fatale is pursued by a woman detective, and Russell and Winger are both really good, investing these archetypes with signature flourishes and cagey personalities. You could imagine that a contemporary remake could really push the tension between the two and open up the story to more of a thrilling showdown. Here, the denounment feels a bit like a TV murder mystery movie, but as a Columbo fan, I was into it. It’s a moody thriller that gives space to its two compelling stars. Great supporting cast including Lois Smith, Diane Ladd, James Hong, Terry O’Quinn and even a cameo from David Mamet. Available to stream on Disney Plus. Recommended.
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