Blu ray review: The Package (1989)
Kino Lorber has released a sadly overlooked military action-drama from Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Under Sieg, Code of Silence). Gene Hackman stars as a Green Beret who is blamed for a military mishap that resulted in the assassination of a US General. As a comedown he is given the assignment of escorting an Army Sergeant to America with plans for his arrest for hitting an officer. Once they land at Dulles, the Sergeant is taken away and the Green Beret finds himself in an intricate plot and coverup that could be detrimental to America’s survival if he does not act fast. Tommy Lee Jones is great as the imposter who works undercover, and the cast is rounded out with top drawer talent including Joanna Cassidy, Pam Grier, John Heard, Dennis Franz, and Reni Santoni.
Director Davis paces the narrative well, offering a rhythm that manages to balance the suspense and the action. And despite the backgrounds making it look like the film was shot on location around Germany and Washington DC, filming reportedly took place in Chicago and the surrounding area.
Kino’s blu ray includes an optional introduction from Andrew Davis as well as a commentary track by Davis and actress Cassidy, and an interview with Cassidy.
The Package is an exciting, well-acted military drama that is recommended. It is available for purchase at this link: PACKAGE
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