Is Dangerously Close Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Dangerously Close is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Dangerously Close Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1986, Dangerously Close emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Crime, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Rebel without a cause or a clue at an elite but uptight college discovers some of his classmates have formed an even more elite clique more or less hell-bent on ridding the school, and quite possibly American society, of what they deem to be its undesirables because of ethnicity, politics, etc. Unlike standard genre fare, Dangerously Close attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
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?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Dangerously Close (1986) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Dangerously Close Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Dangerously Close is a Action, Crime, Thriller film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Dangerously Close Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Dangerously Close attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, 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, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
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
Dangerously Close Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $2.4M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
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Full Cast & Crew of Dangerously Close
- John Stockwell – Randy McDevitt
- John Edward Peck – Donny Lennox
- Carey Lowell – Julie
- Bradford Bancroft – Krooger Raines
- Don Michael Paul – Ripper
Top Highlights
John StockwellRandy McDevitt
John Edward PeckDonny Lennox
Carey LowellJulie
Bradford BancroftKrooger Raines
Don Michael PaulRipper
Thom MathewsBrian Rigletti
Gerard ChristopherLang Bridges
Madison MasonCorrigan
Anthony De LongisSmith Raddock
Carmen ArgenzianoMolly
Where to Watch Dangerously Close Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
MGM+ Amazon Channel
MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel
MGM Plus
PhiloParents Guide & Age Rating
Dangerously Close is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.7/10, and global collection metrics, Dangerously Close stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1986 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dangerously Close movie hit or flop?
Dangerously Close is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.7/10 and lower collections.
Is Dangerously Close worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.7/10, Dangerously Close may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Dangerously Close online?
Dangerously Close is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, MGM Plus, Philo depending on your region.
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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 analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
