Johnny Walker (Mickey Roarke) is a punch-drunk and alcoholic cowboy pugilist who gives boxing one last shot in Asbury Park, New Jersey. He meets Wesley Pendergrass (
Christopher Walken), the smooth-talking hood who tries to talk Johnny into helping in the heist of a jewelry store. Johnny considers the offer but elects to enter the ring to help Ruby (Debra Feuer) and her financially troubled arcade with the prize money. He agrees to the bout despite the fact that a blow to his fractured temple bone could kill him. Plodding, pretentious, and cliche-ridden, Walken's performance is the highlight of this grim film. Roarke sued to stop the release of the feature, claiming that the money and creative control promised to him was never delivered. Music is provided by
Eric Clapton and
Michael Kamen. ~ Dan Pavlides, All Movie Guide