The 1994 Bruce Willis thriller Striking Distance is currently streaming on Netflix, and fans are calling it one of the most underrated action films of the 1990s. The movie pairs Willis with Sarah Jessica Parker and features a gripping detective story set in Pittsburgh.
Plot and Cast
Willis stars as Tom Hardy, a former homicide detective who becomes obsessed with catching a serial killer known as the Polish Hill Strangler. Tom suspects the killer may be responsible for his father's death, which drives him toward alcoholism and leads to his demotion. He is then partnered with Jo Christman, played by Parker, and they investigate fresh victims.
The film also features Dennis Farina from Manhunter and Tom Sizemore, known for Saving Private Ryan and Heat. The supporting cast was praised by viewers for their performances.
Production and Filming
Originally titled Three Rivers, the film was shot on location in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The city's landmarks and streets serve as a backdrop for the action, adding authenticity to the story. One fan on Reddit noted, 'I don't live very far from where this movie was filmed, so I can visit the places this was filmed.'
Critical Reception
On IMDb, the film has garnered positive reviews. One viewer wrote: 'Bruce Willis and Sarah Jessica Parker were excellent together and the supporting cast was also outstanding.' Another commented: 'Not Your Ordinary Action Film, Very Underrated.' A third reviewer observed: 'More than any film I can remember in a long time, I have never understood why this film hasn't gotten higher ratings than it has.' They added, 'I would still say that the film is well worth watching when you're in the mood for some escapist fun and action fare.'
On Reddit, a fan celebrated the film, saying: 'Yeah, as a yinzer [a person from Pittsburgh] I loved this growing up. It was like Die Hard goes Pittsburgh.' Another viewer remarked: 'I enjoyed it from start to finish. V.good thriller of the 90's with good character personalities working off each other.'
Streaming Availability
Striking Distance is available to stream on Netflix. The film has been described as an entertaining mystery with an 'AWESOME car chase' and is recommended for fans of Bruce Willis and 1990s action thrillers.
