Customer Reviews

Death of a Centerfold [VHS]

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This made-for-TV movie called for a better production which came in the form of "Star 80" two years later. Not much use in bashing this one, but it is not well cast, the acting is uneven, and it is factually inaccurate.

Bless you, Dorothy, wherever you are.

I've always been interested in the story of Dorothy Stratten and try to purchase as much as possible about the subject, and I feel this rendition falls far from the truth and really fits the usual made for Tv dramas that are on TV today, which usually lack accuracy and tend to fill in a lot of blanks or leave key things out. I understand the circumstances behind the making of this, and why some things were changed and I respect that but feel that if you can't keep it somewhat accurate you should at least change the name of it as well!

I have to say that this version is interesting, with the casting of Jamie Lee Curtis (the "Scream Queen"), one of my favorite actresses as Dorothy, although she doesn't bear much of a resemblance. Although I think that Bob Fosse's "STAR 80" is better, this version has something good going for it - the inner strength that Dorothy discovers, but she is still unable to save herself. (Maybe the fact that a woman directed it had some influence). Bruce Weitz is overbearing as Snider, but he seems a bit too old. Remember, Paul Snider was 29 when he died. This film's version of events leading up to the crime doesn't quite feel right, but no matter. It's a cut above a lot of other TV movies. But if you want something closer to the real story, watch "STAR 80". This one will do, though.

This vendor was fine but the movie was terrible. If you are a Dorothy Stratton fan, don't buy this movie!

What can you say about this ripped from the headlines TV movie? It's not particularly exploitive but it's not that great either. It holds your interest but after viewing it you shrug your shoulders. Jamie Lee Curtis, one of our great unsung actresses (should have scored an Oscar nom for her work in "True Lies" or "Freaky Friday" for that matter), is merely adequate as Dorothy Stratten. Robert Reed, playing a Peter Bogdanovich type, is merely laughable. The only performance that grabs your interest is Bruce Weitz's(Mick Belker from "Hill Street Blues") for all the wrong reasons. Granted that the film's title telegraphs it's ominous conclusion Weitz chews the scenery to such a degree as Paul Snider that we have no doubts about his culpability. Do yourself a favor and check out Bob Fosse's "Star 80" and particularly Eric Roberts multilayered turn as Snider. "Galaxina" is a must but avoid Bogdanovich's "They All Laughed" at all costs.

This was one of Jamie Lee Curtis' earlier movies, and probably the first one that featured her in such revealing outfits. Jamie's white bikini scene certainly turned heads, but supporting cast member Tracy Reed donned an even more provocative swimsuit at Hugh Hefner's mansion when Dorothy (Curtis) arrived. I would have liked to see more of Mindy (Reed) in her hot bikini.