Sunset Heat (1992)

Sunset Heat Poster

A former drug-dealer photojournalist (Michael Paré) returns to Los Angeles and helps friends terrorized by his ex-partner (Dennis Hopper).

Film Background
"Sunset Heat" is an American action, thriller, and drama film directed by John Nicolella and launched in 1992. The movie includes a star-studded cast with Michael Paré portraying the lead role of Eric Wright. Other main characters consist of Dennis Hopper who plays Danny Rollins, and Adam Ant gives life to Mickey.

Plot Overview
The story of "Sunset Heat" focuses on the unstable life of Eric Wright, a style photographer in Los Angeles. Eric witnesses a man being attacked at an art gallery by a callous drug dealer, Mickey. As Eric intervenes and erroneously ends up eliminating Mickey's brother Joey, he becomes an immediate target, putting his life in severe threat.

Story Progression
The plot thickens when Eric discovers that the safe guy he was attempting to save from Mickey at the gallery was not so innocent after all. The male, Danny Rollins, is a retired mobster who is renowned for his infamous heist from the past. He took a lot of money and hid it in a place understood only to him. As Mickey recognizes the potential fortune lying in Danny's knowledge, he decides to spare his life temporarily and use him to locate the surprise loot.

Eric's Dilemma and Strategy
Eric, despite being a target, declines to go to the cops as he doesn't wish to trivialize Joey's death and wants to bring Mickey to justice himself. Recognizing the possibly explosive situation he is in, Eric partners with a not likely buddy, Danny, and devises a plan. They make use of Mickey's greed for the covert money to set a trap for him. Throughout the movie, Eric and Danny are seen working against the clock trying to outsmart Mickey while Eric likewise reconciles his relationship with his girlfriend Laura, portrayed by Tracy Tweed.

Climax and Conclusion
In a thrilling climax, Eric and Danny lure Mickey into their trap. The two succeed in defeating their enemies, with Danny eliminating Mickey himself, getting a cathartic release from his past. Eric, having actually now avenged Joey's death, surrenders to the cops, selecting to face the consequences of his actions instead of running away. The film ends on a mournful note of justice and redemption.

Themes and Performances
"Sunset Heat" checks out styles of guilt, vengeance, justice and eventually, redemption. The movie includes elements of both action and thriller categories which keep it engaging throughout. It uses a number of extreme chase sequences and a generous dosage of suspense. The efficiencies of the cast, particularly Michael Paré and Dennis Hopper are good, as they successfully bring their complicated characters to life, enhancing the general feel and tension of the film.

Though the film did not get significant vital praise upon release, over time it has actually found its audience who values its detailed plot, strong efficiencies and thrilling series. "Sunset Heat" remains a considerable entry in the filmographies of Michael Paré and Dennis Hopper.

Top Cast

  • Michael Paré (small)
    Michael Paré
    Eric Wright
  • Adam Ant
    Danny Rollins
  • Dennis Hopper (small)
    Dennis Hopper
    Carl Madson
  • Daphne Ashbrook (small)
    Daphne Ashbrook
    Julie
  • Charlie Schlatter (small)
    Charlie Schlatter
    David
  • Tracy Tweed
    Lena
  • Little Richard (small)
    Little Richard
    Brandon
  • Luca Bercovici (small)
    Luca Bercovici
    Det. Cook
  • Tony Todd (small)
    Tony Todd
    Drucker
  • Joe Lara (small)
    Joe Lara
    Todd
  • Julie Strain (small)
    Julie Strain
    Carl's Breakfast Girl / Silver Statuette