The Enforcer

Rating:
Summary: Interesting Film, But Questionable Message
Review: In this interesting Dirty Harry film, Harry and company duel with a weird group of "revolutionaries." While the plot and characterization are compelling, the scenario gives rise to some questions.

How come Dirty Harry never paused from his pursuit of these terrorists, and asked himself, "Why do they hate us?" Harry seemed determined simply to wipe out these terrorists, in a unilateral fashion, as a cowboy would do. He never considered forming a coalition, or dispatching inspectors to monitor the activities of the group -- there was absolutely no mention of the United Nations. Dirty Harry, in his dealings with these terrorists, was at no time compassionate, tolerant, diverse or inclusive. He just seemed to think that killing them was the only way to stop them (which, indicentally, it WAS -- but that's beside the point). Harry did not at any time take into account any specific cultural or religious motivations which might have prompted the terrorists to kill people, and he seemed to have no regard whatever for their feelings.

Shouldn't Harry have been more sensitive, diverse, tolerant, inclusive and compassionate? Isn't that the best way, according to about half the people who participated in a national survey conducted November 2000, to deal with terrorists who want to wipe you out?

Rating:
Summary: A Solid Chapter in the Book of Dirty Harry
Review: In this third chapter from the Book of Dirty Harry Callahan, there's plenty of action as Harry breaks in a new partner and goes after a ruthless bunch, some self-proclaimed revolutionaries who are nothing more than common criminals, in "The Enforcer," directed by James Fargo, and starring Clint Eastwood and Tyne Daly. And beyond the action, it's a film that manages to make a valid statement about bureaucratic nonsense, as well as the lack of common sense employed by those ensconced in the budding agenda of "political correctness," who put an emphasis on image over purpose and results. Mostly, though, it gives the audience a chance to share vicariously in the triumph of good over evil, as Harry once again metes out justice in his own inimitable way.

After taking charge and cleaning up a hostage situation in a way that only "Dirty Harry" can, Harry (Eastwood) is assigned to a desk job in personnel. But when his partner, Frank DiGiorgio (John Mitchum) goes down on the job during the robbery of a munitions warehouse, Harry is back on the street, but with a new partner, Kate Moore (Daly), one of the first female inspectors in the country. And Harry puts her through her paces as they attempt to track down this particularly volatile gang, who seemingly put little value on human life as they cut their swath through the city of San Francisco and pursue their own "for the people" agenda, which in reality means they want to get their hands on as much cash as possible, and plan to hold the city hostage to do it. But they had better think again; because when they took down Frank, they inadvertently provoked the ire of Inspector Callahan himself, who does not take kindly to their sort to begin with.

James Fargo is in the director's chair for this one, and he comports himself well, recapturing all of the attitudes and elements that made the first two "Dirty Harry" films so successful. Fargo sets a good pace and keeps the story on at least an equal footing with the action, which keeps this one involving. Giving Harry a female partner puts some added interest into the mix as well, in light of the fact that this film was made in an era in which women were just beginning to emerge in such positions, on the screen or otherwise. "Cagney and Lacey," for instance, was still some five or six years away, and Kathleen Turner's "V.I. Warshawski" wouldn't make an appearance until 1991. Initially, the film takes something of a patronizing attitude toward her, but Harry treats her as an equal from the beginning, and in the end, Inspector Moore emerges as a strong character, gender aside. Most importantly, that is not the focus of the filmmakers here, and the fact that Moore is a woman is little more in the overall scheme of things than a footnote in cinematic history; Moore is just another character in the "Dirty Harry" saga, and she's a good one (especially when compared to Harry's partner, Al Quan-- played by Evan C. Kim-- in "The Dead Pool"). And credit Fargo with insuring that it all blends together naturally within the context of the story, as well as the fact that he keeps the relationship between Callahan and Moore on task, and allows it to develop quite credibly. All in all, it's a good, collaborative effort from all concerned.

What really gives this one that ring of authenticity, however, is that Clint Eastwood is in top form, and even in his third outing as Harry seems more immersed in the character than ever. And, in the final analysis, story aside, it's the "Dirty Harry" character that makes these films so popular and successful. Creating a cinematic icon is no easy task, and that's precisely what Eastwood has done with Harry; and it's gratifying to see that he is willing to give that 110% at this stage of the game, in order to maintain the credibility of the character and the films, as well. A lesser actor would have taken this kind of success to the bank by now, while possibly allowing the character to slip into caricature rather than being concerned with keeping it real and convincing. It demonstrates what a pro Eastwood is, and why he commands the kind of respect afforded him within the industry.

Taking on the role of Kate Moore had to be a challenge for Tyne Daly, and happily, she succeeds quite well with it. She makes her character convincing by allowing her to develop in a "real time" manner; she doesn't just jump in there, full blown and ready to take on hardened criminals. Initially, she displays some intimidation in Harry's presence, which gives their relationship some realism from the beginning. After all, Harry IS an intimidating guy; add to that the fact that this is a new job for Moore, which in reality would create a level of discomfort for anyone, anywhere. And Daly has tapped into all of that with her portrayal of Moore, making her a very believable character, and one of the most memorable from among the five "Dirty Harry" films.

The supporting cast includes Harry Guardino (Lt. Bressler), Bradford Dillman (Capt. McKay), DeVeren Bookwalter (Bobby Maxwell), John Crawford (The Mayor), Samantha Doane (Wanda) and Albert Popwell as "Big" Ed Mustapha (look for Popwell in the original "Dirty Harry" as the Bank Robber; in "Magnum Force" as pimp J.J. Wilson; and again in "Sudden Impact" as one of Harry's partners, Horace). A well made and entertaining film, "The Enforcer" keeps the "Dirty Harry" series alive, well and on solid ground; in retrospect, it seems a shame now that Eastwood waited seven years to make the next installment, "Sudden Impact," as with the dreadful "The Dead Pool" in 1988, it all ended with barely a whimper. The first four, however, more than make up for it-- and that's the magic of the movies.

Rating:
Summary: DIRTY HARRY & THE LADY COP
Review: is the basic premise of the third installment in the series. THE ENFORCER tackles some mid-1970's issues, most notable women being indoctrinated into mainstream law enforcement and the front line men having to accept their presence. The times they were changing, but Clint keeps Harry Callahan true to the old guard: when in doubt, shoot. Plenty of action in this nominal storyline about a group of west coast revolutionaries, who Harry discovers to be just a group of street thugs looking for easy money and piling up bodies along the way for their own enjoyment. They meet with the rath of Callahan in predictable fashion. But along the way, you get a first rate performance from Tyne Daley, solid work by Harry Guardino and some hysterical dialogue, whether it was intended to be that way or not.

Rating:
Summary: Harry enforces the law HIS way.
Review: It should come as no surprise that, after dealing with right wing vigilantes in Magnum Force, SFPD Inspector 'Dirty' Harry Callahan went up again militant left radicals in The Enforcer.

When Harry breaks up a liquor store robbery in his own special way, he gets busted down to the Personnel Department. The transfer is short lived though, for Harry's former partner is killed when a group of radicals steals a large amount of weaponry. Saddled with an unwanted female partner, one whose promotion to Inspector is politcally motivated (and in Harry's opinion unsafe), Callahan goes on the hunt. The political pressure increases when the militants kidnap the Mayor.

The third Dirty Harry adventure, like the previous entries, had been inspired by actual events (the seizing of Alcatraz by a group of Native American activists and the infamous Patty Hearst kidnapping by the SLA), which, in and off itself, lifts it above the average Rogue Cop thriller. Which is a good thing, for The Enforcer stands out from the other films in the series for all the wrong reasons. James Fargo's direction is uninspired, the cinematography is flat, and Jerry Fielding's score (while quite good) is no replacement for Lalo Schifrin's now classic themes. Working in the film's favor is Tyne Daly's performance, Clint Eastwood's charisma, and some rousing action pieces (including a city spanning footchase as opposed to the seemingly ubiquitous car chase). Fans of both Eastwood and Cop movies should find something to like in this formulaic thriller, recommended.

Rating:
Summary: It has a certain sense of style.
Review: It's a good thing San Francisco has a cop like Harry Callahan. No punk is safe with Harry around and if they happen to get killed before he can arrest them, read them their rights and go to trial, well it's a dirty job, but someone has to do it. Three hoods who have hostages are held up in a store they've robbed. The cops have the place surrounded and then Harry shows up. They want a car and after they inspect Harry for weapons while on the floor ("this is my best sportjacket") he returns to his car and delivers it to them, right through the front window of the store. You know the rest, but the main hoods are members of the "People's Revolutionary Strike Force". How all the brutal murders they commit and weapons they steal along with a demand for two million dollars is "for the people" is hard to buy. They hold up on Alcatraz after taking the mayor hostage and Harry with his new partner (Tyne Daly) take a little cruise out to the island. Fair amount of action throughout and a watchable Dirty Harry although not really as good as the first one.

Rating:
Summary: Winnowing out the "Neanderthals"
Review: It's a good thing San Francisco has a cop like Harry Callahan. No punk is safe with Harry around and if they happen to get killed before he can arrest them, read them their rights and go to trial, well it's a dirty job, but someone has to do it. Three hoods who have hostages are held up in a store they've robbed. The cops have the place surrounded and then Harry shows up. They want a car and after they inspect Harry for weapons while on the floor ("this is my best sportjacket") he returns to his car and delivers it to them, right through the front window of the store. You know the rest, but the main hoods are members of the "People's Revolutionary Strike Force". How all the brutal murders they commit and weapons they steal along with a demand for two million dollars is "for the people" is hard to buy. They hold up on Alcatraz after taking the mayor hostage and Harry with his new partner (Tyne Daly) take a little cruise out to the island. Fair amount of action throughout and a watchable Dirty Harry although not really as good as the first one.

Rating:
Summary: OK, not quite "marvelous"
Review: Kindler, gentler Dirty Harry film which puts our bureaucracy-hating, crime-busting hero with a female partner played by Tyne Daly, who would later achieve fame on "Cagney & Lacey" and is currently seen on "Judging Amy." Thin plot, some classic Eastwood quotes, but the villains can't match Andy Robinson from "Dirty Harry" or David Soul from "Magnum Force." This might be the weakest Harry of the bunch.

Rating:
Summary: "Whats with the citizen"
Review: Not many fans here. Well dont worry, its still a great film. Its not art in the classical sense, but its great to watch. The dialogue is pure class.The actors Mitchum and Eastwood have a genuine rapport on screen, as DiGiorgio seems to understand what is required to work with Harry (besides a vest, if only he would wear one)

at the armed robbery of a liquor store in the first 10 mins

Fatso (DiGiorgio) "what do they want?"

Harry "A car"

Fatso "what are you going to do"

Harry "Give 'em one"

and so he does. I dont want to spoil it by telling you how if you havent seen it. Harry gets moved to personnel and records, his view on that department is most edifying. There he interviews his partner to be, with some interesting legal questions involving a donkey and a lady sitting in on the interview board. DiGiorgio is badly hurt trying to stop a robbery at an arms factory, so Harry wants back on homicide. A poignant moment for the film comes when DiGiorgio's wife Irene pauses to tell Harry "its a war, isnt it.I guess I never really understood that", which is how most people have reviewed this film, critically. A lot of the issues in this film are just as relevant now, political correctness, women in combat roles, black oppression and militancy, kidnapping extortion and ex military guys going nuts and planting bombs (contemporary enough for you?), 66mm anti armour rockets, tazer guns.

Harry takes revenge in the usual spectacular fashion, I wonder if the guy who thinks Harry has a .357 has even watched any of his films. Complete the line "this is a ** magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world" etc. Its a .44 in case you read this far.

Anyway, The Enforcer may not have the plot of dirty harry, or the paranoia of magnum force, but it does have plenty of action, revenge, and even gives us a clue to the sadness Harry carries around with him. Just watch it and remember, "eat at luigis"

Rating:
Summary: Non-PC Harry
Review: Personally I think that this is an excellent movie but not for the reasons that you might think.

This is not the best action Dirty Harry movie, nor is it the best for reasons that other reviewers have reiterated elsewhere.

As an entertainment piece it is watchable and even fun, but for me the best thing about the movie is the jibes at the whole politically correct movement.

From the outset at the liquor store, Callahan, although affecting the requires result, does so in a way which costs the city money and which is feared will undermine mayoral initiatives.

Reassigned to Personnel Harry shows up at a promotion board and immediately crosses swords with the mayor's representative who is to supervise proceedings to ensure that there is diversity. The scenario worsens when Officer Moore (Tyne Daly) enters the picture. Callahan is concerned that the job of Inspector is dangerous and politically correct decisions may result in loss of life.

The movie attacks other aspects of life where others fear to tread. The priest who supports revolutionary causes, believing that no-one ought to be killed comes to see the error of his ways, and the search for a key witness sees Harry in the brothel undercover (pardon the pun) discovering the delights of rubber dollies and a reality of the sex industry where punters paying for sex through the mail receive letters signed by elderly women some without teeth.

All told the movie really is a rather vicious attack on the values of our society in the face of a violent reality whether it be from organised crime or from so-called revolutionary groups. It also casts doubt on the so-called principles of such groups, basically viewing them as just another way to get money much like the group in 'Die Hard'.

From that point of view it is an extremely interesting movie and where else to portray such an attack? San Francisco, the capital city of liberal politics. On a final note, the movie really does not have much time for career politicians either, presenting the mayor as being concerned only with image, trying to succour the votes of minorities by playing to their sensibilities rather than coming up with real solutions to real problems and being more concerned with poll findings to determine his direction rather than having a strong character.

Rating:
Summary: More Magnum-Sized Entertainment
Review: The Enforcer (1976) was a disappointment to me. The previous two DIRTY HARRY films had many memorable moments. The Enforcer has only one. It was Callahan handling a liquor store robbery in his own no-nonsense way. This sequence occurred a few minutes after the start of the film and set a tone and pace that the remainder of the film ignored. After this great segment, the script takes a nose dive into snatches of cheesy dialogue between Eastwood and his co-star Tyne Daly. However, there are more one-liners in The Enforcer than in the previous two films.

The memorable music by Lalo Schriffin is sorely missing, replaced by saxaphone music by Jerry Fielding. It is the only DIRTY HARRY film that lacks his music. Another problem of the film are the villians, a group of post-hippie terrorists. None of them make convincing characters. Maxwell, the leader of the terrorist group, is no where near as frightening as the psychos Callahan faced in the other films. The climax leads to Alcatraz, but it turns into one of the film's biggest disappointments.

Finally, the Harry Callahan character begins to go through a drastic mood swing. He's more harsh and embittered in this one and will eventually reach a state of "The Dirtiest Harry of Them All" in Sudden Impact (1983). Unfortunately, The Enforcer is "The Worst Dirty Harry Film of Them All". Rated R for strong language, violence, and brief nudity. Followed seven years later by the superior Sudden Impact.