Blaze (1989)

Paul Newman is flamboyant Louisiana governor Earl Long, brother to the well known U.S. Senator Huey P. Long. He falls in love with stripper Blaze Starr, played by Lolita Davidovich, which proves to be his political downfall. The film is all over the place in tone, unsure if it wants to be about the comedic partnering of the mismatched pair or a serious look into civil rights and Southern political machinations. My usual adoration for Newman flatlined ins his relatively dull representation of Long, while I was impressed with Davidovich’s portrayal. Looking at photos of the real Starr, it seems Lolita encompassed her essence quite wonderfully.

Oscar Nomination: Best Cinematography