FOUL PLAY

CAPSULE REVIEW –– Not the most inspired Hawn/Chase pairing, however, it does show the innate romantic chemistry they share onscreen. It's Hawn's first major comedic lead role and she is one of the only things worth watching in this convoluted murder mystery. Her performance is somewhat all over the map, yet her simple, ditzy charm as a lonely divorcee caught in the middle of a plot to assassinate the Pope keeps this film afloat. No one believes her claims that she's on the run from a midget and an albino who are trying to kill her. Chase plays the cop who answers her distress call and then falls in love with her while solving the mystery. The "joy" of this film is in Hawn's bumbling, yet successful attempts to escape her pursuers. She proves her talent at physical comedy, despite the utterly confusing plot that surrounds her. It's clear this was a vehicle made to showcase that side of her personality with no care going to the final product. Chase is a mere supporting player here, which is a real shame. His timing and talent could have made this a much better flick. Moore and Meredith add much needed comic relief in their minor, yet memorable roles. The former gives Austin Powers a run for his money as a sexy swinger Hawn uses to elude her pursuers. A film that doesn't come close to reaching it's potential. For major Hawn fans only.