True Colors (1991)

True Colors is an extremely well-intentioned film that is severely weakened by its predictability. Kevin Wade's screenplay packs some punch at first, when it seems that it's painting its characters and set-ups in broad strokes to provide some interesting reversals or surprises. When it becomes apparent, however, that John Cusack's character really is as abhorrent as he seems and that James Spader's really is as virtuous as he seems, the film loses steam -- and credibility. The characters behave in such a trite manner that it's impossible to believe that no one can see through Cusack's machinations for the first two-thirds of the film -- or through Spader's for the final third. As a result, despite the often fast pacing, the film lags and the viewer's attention wanders. Were it not for two first class performances from the leads, the audience would likely become irritated at the turns of the script. Fortunately, both the stars jump into their roles with total commitment, and seem to relish getting to play more-or-less against type. They even manage to make the ludicrous skiing fight work, which is no mean feat. Of the two, Cusack makes the stronger impression upon initial viewing, but this is largely due to the no-holds-barred ambition of the character itself. Spader's carefully nuanced performance lingers and grows more impressive upon reflection. Herbert Ross has directed with expediency but seems to have accepted the flaws in the script rather too easily. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide