For a movie that reveals the killer from the get go, Black Widow sure knows how to keep the tension up for the rest of its running time. It’s a thriller with crimes of passion, a tale of a friendship and deceit, ultimately leading to an inevitable showdown. Although there is certain sexual tension in the air at times, the director Bob Rafelson fortunately doesn’t go down the route of making this movie one of those awkward erotic thrillers. On the contrary; Black Window is a thriller done in a pretty good taste overall.

The chemistry and electricity between Debra Winger and Theresa Russell is absolutely marvellous, ranging from a heartful friendship to a spine tingling game of minds. Even if most of the men are just spectators in this show, most of the side characters are well written and some even fun in a quirky kind of way.

With its lush scenes of Hawaiian landscape Black Widow plays out like that perfect paperback novel we’re kind of always hoping to find when heading for a vacation.

80s-o-meter: 89%

Total: 86%