Dangerously Close
Performance & Direction: Dangerously Close Review
Last updated: February 18, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Dangerously Close (1986) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Dangerously Close features a noteworthy lineup led by John Stockwell . Supported by the likes of John Edward Peck and Carey Lowell , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Dangerously Close
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1986, Dangerously Close is a Action, Crime, Thriller film directed by Albert Pyun. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving John Stockwell.
Ending Explained: Dangerously Close
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Albert Pyun, Dangerously Close attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving John Stockwell, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Dangerously Close reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Dangerously Close Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Dangerously Close incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, crime, thriller film directed by Albert Pyun, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for John Stockwell's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Dangerously Close adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Dangerously Close?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Dangerously Close
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $2.4M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Top Cast: Dangerously Close
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Where to Watch Dangerously Close Online?
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PhiloDangerously Close Parents Guide & Age Rating
1986 AdvisoryWondering about Dangerously Close age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Dangerously Close is 95 minutes (1h 35m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.7/10, and global performance metrics, Dangerously Close is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1986 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dangerously Close worth watching?
Dangerously Close is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 4.7/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Dangerously Close parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Dangerously Close identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Dangerously Close?
The total duration of Dangerously Close is 95 minutes, which is approximately 1h 35m long.
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How Dangerously Close Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Dangerously Close
**_A (superior) Massacre at Central High_** An underprivileged teen (J. Eddie Peck) attends an upper-class school near the coast in SoCal where a group of students, organized by a teacher who’s a Vietnam vet, guard the school from thuggish behavior. The leader of the Sentinels (John Stockwell) tries to woo him into his increasingly arrogant group. “Dangerously Close” (1986) had the same producer as "Massacre at Central High" from ten years prior. I point this out because the plots & settings are similar, albeit this one doesn’t have the awkward twist of the second half of “Massacre” and is an all-around improvement. It’s similar to "Tuff Turf" from the previous year, but more focused (“Tuff Turf” is entertaining, but tried to be too many things). There are also bits reminiscent of "Eddie and the Cruisers," minus the band angle. The soundtrack is a highlight, featuring 80’s pop rock and new wave bands, with notable songs like “Stripped” by Depeche Mode and “Blood and Roses” by The Smithereens. Carey Lowell is serviceable on the female front, as are Dedee Pfeiffer and Karen Lorre, but not enough is done with them. On the other side of the spectrum, Don Michael Paul is effective as a member of the Sentinels marked by “toxic masculinity.” If you like similar 80’s teen movies like "Valley Girl" and "The Karate Kid," you should appreciate this undeservedly obscure one. It influenced "Some Kind of Wonderful," which came out the next year, but focuses on the intense clash of the male students rather than romance. The film runs 1 hour, 35 minutes, and was shot in the greater Los Angeles area, including Glendale (high school), Malibu Creek State Park in Calabasas, Marina del Rey and Redondo Beach. GRADE: B+
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
