My review was written in April 1989 after watching the film on RCA/Columbia video cassette.
"Lucky Stiff" is a genuinely amusing black comedy that got lost in the distribution shuffle when released late last year. Video prospects are much better.
Originally named "Mr. Christmas Dinner", pic revolves around portly Joe Alaskey, jilted at the altar, who's spotted by siblings Donna Dixon and Jeff Kober as the ideal meal ticket for their family of cannibals.
Some crazy slapstick ranges from the Lake Tahoe ski lodge where seductive Dixon picks Alaskey up, to the remote family homestead where everyone tries to fatten up Alsakey for their next meal.
Poor taste material is made to work by some terrific one-liner by scrpter Pat Proft. As demonstrated by his previous "Psycho III" assignment as well as his choice of acting roles, helmer Anthony Perkins has a real affinity for dark humor.
Rotund comic Alaskey has a smooth delivery and does a great job executing the physical bits. Glamorously styled, Dixon is alluring and her arch readings suggest more sophisticated roles are in order.
Tech credits are solid.
"Lucky Stiff" is a genuinely amusing black comedy that got lost in the distribution shuffle when released late last year. Video prospects are much better.
Originally named "Mr. Christmas Dinner", pic revolves around portly Joe Alaskey, jilted at the altar, who's spotted by siblings Donna Dixon and Jeff Kober as the ideal meal ticket for their family of cannibals.
Some crazy slapstick ranges from the Lake Tahoe ski lodge where seductive Dixon picks Alaskey up, to the remote family homestead where everyone tries to fatten up Alsakey for their next meal.
Poor taste material is made to work by some terrific one-liner by scrpter Pat Proft. As demonstrated by his previous "Psycho III" assignment as well as his choice of acting roles, helmer Anthony Perkins has a real affinity for dark humor.
Rotund comic Alaskey has a smooth delivery and does a great job executing the physical bits. Glamorously styled, Dixon is alluring and her arch readings suggest more sophisticated roles are in order.
Tech credits are solid.