Consenting Adults

Starring: Kevin Kline, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Kevin Spacey, Forrest Whitaker

Gee whiz. Another “something (you fill in the blank) from hell” story--in this case, neighbors. And by now the formula is wearing thin. Coincidence piles upon happenstance piles upon stupid mistake by the hero as the tortured plot unwinds. By now the pattern has achieved a nearly classical motif, with everything happening right on schedule and all the correct buttons being pushed. Including, of course, the requisite bloody denouement (with, as seems to be happening more and more, the embattled wife saving the day). This year’s model is, I suppose, no better or worse than the others (well, maybe a little worse). Performances are adequate in a sterile way; the standout is Spacey, who for most of the movie displays a raptorous charm, before being revealed (natch) as just another screw loose psycho. (10/22/92)