The Border (1982)

 

A corrupt border Agent decides to clean up his act when an impoverished woman's baby is put up for sale on the black market.

Adequate thriller is tough and suspenseful exposing police corruption and the downfalls of lower middle-class American life; once again, Jack Nicholson delivers a strong performance.

Halliwell (no star): "A rather solemn elaboration on a well-worn theme,with nothing very memorable except its excesses." 

Maltin**1/2: "Cast and story-line beg for Sam Peckinpah in his prime; mildly interesting, but never really takes off."

The Brink's Job (1978)

Crime story based on the real armed robbery of the Brink's Building in Boston, Massachusetts, on January 17th, 1950.

From memory: Professionally made, star-cast heist movie is offered with humor, but not much excitement.

Halliwell (no star): "Farcical variation of a much-told true tale. Despite much mugging by the stars and a frantic narrative style, it does not come off."

Maltin***: "Entertaining, comically oriented account...Excellent period and location flavor."