Maniac! (Assault in Paradise) is an action-packed thriller film released in 1980. This gritty movie stars Oliver Reed, Deborah Raffin, Stuart Whitman, James Mitchum, and John Ireland. Set in the scenic islands of Hawaii, the story follows a group of criminals who attempt to pull off a million-dollar heist on a luxury yacht. However, their plans are thwarted by the island's police force, led by the strong-willed Lieutenant Oliver Sloan (played by Stuart Whitman), and a local hotel owner, Amy Standish (played by Deborah Raffin), who becomes embroiled in their dangerous game.
The film wastes no time in setting the scene, introducing the audience to the main players and building up the tension. The opening sequence shows a group of criminals, led by the ruthless Frank Logan (played by Oliver Reed), making their way to Hawaii, where they plan to rob a wealthy businessman's yacht. The plan seems foolproof until the yacht's captain unexpectedly returns and the group is forced to flee. They make their way to a luxurious hotel owned by Amy Standish, who becomes unwittingly involved in their dangerous game.
As the story progresses, the criminals become increasingly desperate and violent, causing chaos and carnage wherever they go. The film doesn't shy away from showing the brutality of their actions, with scenes of graphic violence and suspenseful chase sequences. At the same time, the island's police force is working tirelessly to apprehend the criminals, culminating in a thrilling showdown on a deserted beach.
One of the standout performances in Maniac! comes from Oliver Reed, who delivers a menacing and intense portrayal of Frank Logan. Reed is known for his ability to play villainous characters, and he doesn't disappoint in this film. However, it's not just his performance that stands out, but also the way his character is written. Frank Logan is a complex figure, with a tragic backstory that helps to explain his twisted motivations.
Deborah Raffin also delivers a strong performance as Amy Standish, a tough and resourceful hotel owner who finds herself caught up in the dangerous world of the criminals. Raffin's character is a refreshing change from the typical damsel in distress trope, and she holds her own in scenes opposite the film's more experienced actors.
Stuart Whitman brings a level of gravitas to his role as Lieutenant Oliver Sloan, the leader of the island's police force. His character is a classic tough guy who's seen it all, but he also brings a sense of empathy and humanity to the part. James Mitchum and John Ireland round out the cast as Sloan's loyal team members, providing solid support and adding to the film's tense atmosphere.
In terms of the production values, Maniac! is a well-made film that does a good job of capturing the beauty and danger of Hawaii. The film's director, William Lustig, is known for his work in the horror genre, and he brings a sense of grittiness and immediacy to this film. The cinematography is excellent, with some stunning shots of the island's landscape and the action sequences are well-choreographed and realistic.
Overall, Maniac! (Assault in Paradise) is a thrilling and suspenseful movie that delivers on its promise of action and excitement. With a strong cast, a tense storyline, and impressive production values, it's well worth a watch for fans of the genre.
Maniac! is a 1977 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes.
