Flashpoint
Border patrol agents unravel JFK assassination conspiracy
About Flashpoint
Released: 1984
Platform: Hulu
Rating: R
Run time:
Cast
Kris Kristofferson, Treat Williams, Rip Torn, Kevin Conway, Miguel Ferrer
Flashpoint (1984)
About Flashpoint
Flashpoint is a 1984 action thriller film directed by William Tannen. Based on George LaFountaine's novel of the same name, it was the first film produced by Home Box Office (HBO). The story revolves around two Texas border guards who discover a jeep buried for decades in the desert. The jeep contains a skeleton, a high-powered rifle, and $800,000 in cash.
Making / Production
The film was shot mostly in the desert of New Mexico, with the setting serving as a substitute for Texas landscapes. Director William Tannen brought the novel to life on the big screen, incorporating elements of action, mystery, and political conspiracy. The production was smooth, concluding within the planned schedules and budget.
Actors
- Kris Kristofferson as Bobby Logan: Kristofferson flawlessly plays the rough around the edges yet moral border guard Bobby Logan.
- Treat Williams as Ernie Wyatt: Williams portrays Ernie, Bobby's hot-headed partner, who becomes the driving force behind investigating the discovery.
- Rip Torn as Sheriff Wells: Torn gives an intense performance as the enigmatic local sheriff.
- Jean Smart as Ellen: Smart's Ellen provides a touch of romance in this predominantly masculine narrative.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- This was HBO's first original film under the "HBO Premiere Films" banner.
- The jeep in the movie is a 1942 Willys 'slat grille' MB.
- Though the film is set in Texas, it was mostly shot in New Mexico.
Quotes
- "You're not thinking of spending it? That money's hot, it's gonna burn you." - Bobby Logan
- "I've waited all my life to fall into luck like this." - Ernie Wyatt
Music, Soundtrack
- The film's score was composed by Tangerine Dream, a German electronic music band known for several soundtracks in the 80s.
- The end title song "Missing" was written by Bruce Springsteen especially for the film.
About Flashpoint
Two Texas border guards discover a jeep buried for 20 years, leading to a conspiracy involving JFK's assassination.