Off and Running (1991)

I wanted to like it more than I actually did... But much of the humor totally escaped me and I walked out only mildly impressed.

If you're interested in the topic at hand, you should just watch it and judge yourself because the reviews have gone very biased by people that didn't even watch it and just hate (or love) the creator. I liked it, it was well written, narrated, and directed and it was about a topic that interests me.

Very good movie overall, highly recommended. Most of the negative reviews don't have any merit and are all pollitically based. Give this movie a chance at least, and it might give you a different perspective.

A clunky actioner with a handful of cool moments.

Pop-star Cyndi Lauper's bid for an acting career never gained momentum, partly due to poor choices like this one. Theatrically unreleased comedy-drama about an actress/cocktail bar mermaid (don't ask) who gets involved with race-track low-life is strictly amateur night in terms of directing, writing and production. Some of the cinematography isn't bad (there's a terrific shot early on of Lauper in her mermaid costume in a tank of water), but without a decent script, the images have nothing substantial to fall back on. Cyndi's supporting cast--David Keith, Johnny Pinto, Jose Perez and Anita Morris--aren't strong enough to help carry the weight, and Lauper still isn't strong enough as an actress to bear the burden of a C-minus picture by herself. *1/2 from ****

I purchased this movie because I'm a die-hard Cyndi Lauper fan. Trying not to be biased, I won't say this is a great or very good film. However, it isn't half-bad. It's TV-caliber. I've seen plenty of TV movies less appealing. The problem with the movie is the script. The storyline isn't ridiculous and there are some thrilling 'chase scenes' where you're hoping Cyndi's character can get away, but it does move along rather slowly and without unpredictability. It's reminiscent of "Gloria" with Gena Rowlands, and later, Sharon Stone. She kinda 'steals' a child runaway to get a guy (Keith David) to help her out after a recent man-encounter is off-ed, and they're all "off and running" from some gangsters. I think Cyndi is a very good actress. She's got the acting ability Madonna can only dream of having. Too bad she hasn't been in the spotlight enough to get more movie offers. She also proved to be quite a comedienne in her Emmy-winning role on NBC's "Mad About You" and, while a small role, she definitely had a strong presence in her dramatic role in "The Opportunists" with Chris Walken. I have a feeling we'll be seeing more of her in TV and movies before she's ready to retire. Overall, I give the movie a 6/10. I give Cyndi an 8/10; so, if you're a fan like I am, check it out. I have to say she's got some pretty sexy outfits, too.PS If you can, check out a rerun of her appearance on Chris Isaak's Showtime sitcom.

This is definitely not an intellectual comedy.... however, it is very cute, and definitely worth a view. For all those (which I proudly am!) diehard Cindy Lauper fans and for everyone else, this is a nostalgic and amusing trip. Plus, David Keith adds an additional pleasure. The show is funny, sexy and has a great ending. Check it out, if you need a funny adventure after a hard days work!

Cyndi was very good in this film. Her acting has come a long way from her performance in Vibes. This film was Cyndi's first dramatic role (well the film has some funny moments) but more so is a thriller then a comedy. The plot is not that good (like Vibes) but for some reason,I like this movie better then Cyndi's debut film. With each project I see her in,she is only getting better.