Loner vampire police detective Nick Knight (a fine and likable performance by Rick Springfield) investigates a series of murders in which the victims are drained of blood. Knight's investigation leads him back to his former master and nemesis Lacroix (smoothly played with sinister glee by Michael Nader), who turned Nick into a bloodsucker centuries ago. Director Farhad Mann, working from a smart and inspired script by James D. Parriott, relates the fun and engrossing plot at a snappy pace, offers a vivid evocation of the funky neon haze of nocturnal Los Angeles, and stages the exciting action scenes with skill and flair. Moreover, Knight's struggle to retain his humanity and resist his more monstrous urges makes him a tragic and sympathetic figure. The fine acting from the able cast helps a lot: John Kapelos as Knight's easygoing smartaleck partner Don Schanke, Robert Harper as amiable coroner Dr. Jack Brittington, Laura Johnson as helpful anthropologist Dr. Alyce Hunter, Richard Fancy as antsy superior Captain Brunetti, Craig Richard Nelson as the vengeful Fenner, and Fran Ryan as kindly homeless lady Jeannie. Popping up in cool small parts are Irene Miracle as a nurse and Cec Verrell as chic vampiress Janette. Frank Beascoechea's stylish cinematography boasts lots of sweeping aerial shots and makes invigorating use of a constantly moving camera. Joseph Conlan's dynamic score and the lively rock soundtrack of familiar 80's hits both hit the right-on rousing spot. Worth a watch.
Review of Nick Knight
Nick Knight
(1989 TV Movie)
Nifty made-for-TV horror/action hybrid
8 February 2012
Warning: Spoilers