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Jumpin' Jack Flash


© Kaisha Green

"Sing with me and find the key." It might just have been the first online relationship. Bank computer operator Terry Dolittle is accidentally contacted by a spy, and she is recruited into a world of intrigue, espionage, and a little romance. But don't let that fool you. This movie is also very, very funny--when you see Terry Dolittle dancing to the title Rolling Stones song, in bunny slippers and a robe, you know that this may be the coolest female comedy you've ever seen.

There are so many things about this movie that make it worth seeing, but no discussion of Flash is complete without bowing to the woman who really makes this picture: Whoopi Goldberg.

After making a name for herself on Broadway in her one woman show, she was recruited by Steven Spielberg for The Color Purple. No one got a good look at her comedic talent until 1986 when she was chosen for Terry Dolittle in Jumpin' Jack Flash. This was a surprising choice, because Whoopi was not the typical leading lady. Luckily for us, casting her gave the film an energetic twist and an honesty that elevates it from cheesy comedy to classic cinema. (This is not the only time this has happened with Goldberg-Bette Midler was the original choice for Sister Act.) Whoopi is a perfect fit for the Manhattan backdrop, and her unique brand of earthy humor mixes with her very competent dramatic acting to create quite a tasty cocktail.

Throughout the film, Terry is dragged through the streets in a phone booth, lip synchs (in public!) to Diana Ross, smacks people on the head with frying pans, and is unleashed in New York City loaded up with truth serum-all the while pining for the "Jack" whom she is helping. Whoopi is a delight to watch here, and it is very obvious that her talent is substantial.

There are innumerable cameos in this movie: Garry Marshall (sis Penny directed), Phil Hartman, Jonathan Pryce, Tracey Ullman, Annie Potts, James Belushi, Stephen Collins, Jon Lovitz, and Carol Kane all make appearances. There is a lot of profanity, but it seems perfectly in character and doesn't take away from the humor. Do not miss this one on late night t.v.-you won't regret it. I even bet you will be saying "Fetch Larry, the heavy set guard!" But I won't spoil it for you. It's a gas, gas, gas. Really.

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