Review of Crossroads

1986 was a bit early for my undeveloped mind to admire this great film, nevertheless HBO continued to air it, and day after day I would watch bits and pieces, shrug my shoulders and finally switch to something more to my liking (like Evil Dead 2 for instance). Fast Forward twenty some years later...WOW...Whata great film!! Now after gaining an appreciation of blues culture and music, as well as great performances, one can only acknowledge this as a remarkable and unique little masterpiece. Walter Hill directs this with flair, and the script holds a true understanding of the southern blues lifestyle and musical development and its integration into the blues and metal scene that earmarked the 1980's. Ralph Macchio really delivered during his Karate Kid days, and this is his most triumphant performance yet, as he portrays a young, gifted guitarist obsessed with the legend of the great Robert Johnson, who journeyed to the crossroads to make a pact with the devil so he could play like no one else. Eugene seeks the great harmonica player Willie Brown who supposedly wrote a final song together with Robert Johnson that was never released. Together Eugene and Willie travel to Mississippi to learn the real blues, and finally fulfill his dream. To record the 30th song. Great adventure and turns lie ahead as Eugene gets to confront the same demons of the great classic blues guitarists. This has every quality of an interesting film. It captures the mystery and ruggedness of the original southern blues culture, and explores the Robert Johnson legend with style. The rapport between Macchio and Seneca is excellent, and the supernatural theme sneaks in at the perfect moments. All this together with great music and tight screenplay make this an intelligent American lost 80's classic. Look for Steve Vai's cameo guitar battle scene!