Out of the Blue (1980)

A young girl whose father is an ex-convict and whose mother is a junkie finds it difficult to conform and tries to find comfort in a quirky combination of Elvis and the punk scene.

From memory: Dark, realistic drama with excellent performances, especially Linda Manz'; and using Neil Young's My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue) to great effect.

Halliwell (no star): "At least she can count herself fortunate that she didn't have to sit through this film."

Maltin**1/2: "Taut, low-key drama; could be retitled "Child of Easy Rider.""

The Stunt Man (1980)

A fugitive stumbles on a movie set just when they need a new stunt man, takes the job as a way to hide out and falls for the leading lady.

From memory: Quite original, fast-paced, entertaining tale with some black humor; Peter O'Toole's performance is outstanding.

Halliwell*: "Overlong, curious, but sometimes compelling melodrama which entertains on the surface while its actual aims are harder to fathom."

Maltin***: "An outrageous black comedy  in which reality and make-believe blur...Crammed with first-rate action and sly wit, plus a mesmerizing performance by O'Toole as the Christ-like Eli Cross. Attention must be paid, but the rewards are more than ample. Dazzlingly scripted...and directed; amusing score..."