Broken Angel (1988)

Broken Angel Poster

A man combs Los Angeles for his missing daughter, and discovers she belongs to a gang dealing in crack.

Film Overview
"Broken Angel" is a suspenseful and psychological American drama film released in 1988. Directed by Richard T. Heffron, the film stars television stalwart William Shatner, with Susan Blakely, Roxann Dawson, and Jason Horst. The motion picture primarily revolves around a paranoid suspense theme in which Shatner's character, Chuck Coburn, is a desperate father in pursuit to find his missing out on teenage daughter.

Story
Chuck Coburn is a working-class American whose child, Dana (Roxann Dawson), goes missing out on under suspicious situations. After a number of not successful attempts to receive aid from the cops, Chuck embarks on a psychological journey to discover her. Dana is traced to the underbelly of urban Los Angeles, where she is entangled with a criminal gang.

The film portrays Dana's character as a teen from a good suburban household who becomes increasingly entrapped in a world of drugs, crime, and violence. Dana is a defiant however naive teen, at first fascinated by the evident glamour of gang culture, however she rapidly finds herself in over her head.

Performing and Character Development
William Shatner, best referred to as Captain Kirk from 'Star Trek,' efficiently deviates from his typical functions to embody the desperate, anguished daddy. His portrayal of Chuck's continuous discomfort and aggravation is critical in keeping the audience engaged as he navigates a world unknown to him.

Susan Blakely excellently portrays her role as Chuck's better half, Katherine, offering psychological support to her hubby throughout their harrowing journey. Her character embodies the predicament of every moms and dad and acts as the emotional backbone of the film.

Roxann Dawson convincingly plays the function of Dana, the teenage daughter consumed by her curiosity and rebellion. Her shift from a vibrant, innocent lady to a frightened, struggling young woman is both troubling and gripping.

On The Other Hand, Jason Horst takes on the role of Gang Leader, seemingly cold and ruthless yet not able to conceal a particular vulnerability brought to light as the story advances.

Crucial Reception
"Broken Angel" carried the unique 80s film aesthetic, with its high-stakes drama and extreme emotional series. While the film might not have been groundbreaking, it was typically received as a solid household drama and praised for its engaging efficiencies. The film efficiently explores topics like adult love, teenage rebellion, and the gritty truths of gang culture in urban America.

The story's nerve-wracking tension around the look for a missing out on kid and the desperate journey of a parent in the murky underworld kept the audiences hooked. This, integrated with the performances of the lead actors and strong character advancement, contributed to the movie's overall success.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "Broken Angel" is a remarkable thriller that offers an emotional exploration into a parent's worst nightmare - a lost kid. Regardless of its age, the movie has sustained due to its compelling story, strong performances, and the intense emotional journey it takes its audience on. It works as a plain tip of the effects of teenage disobedience and the lengths a moms and dad would go to ensure their kid's safety.

Top Cast

  • William Shatner (small)
    William Shatner
    Chuck Coburn
  • Susan Blakely (small)
    Susan Blakely
    Catherine Coburn
  • Roxann Dawson (small)
    Roxann Dawson
    Shakti
  • Erika Eleniak (small)
    Erika Eleniak
    Jaime Coburn
  • Jason Horst
    Drew Coburn
  • Millie Perkins (small)
    Millie Perkins
    Penny Bartman
  • Micole Mercurio (small)
    Micole Mercurio
  • Carmen Zapata
  • Collin Davis
    Ron 'Rocket' Raskin
  • Brock Peters (small)
    Brock Peters
    Sgt. Mercurio
  • Amy Lynne
    Jenny Bartman