ROLLOVER

Directed by Alan J. Pakula.  Stars Jane Fonda, Kris Kristofferson, Hume Cronyn.  Written by Howard Shaber.
1981, 116 minutes, Color, 1.85:1

According to Leonard Maltin ROLLOVER is an example of "economic science fiction", which I can go along with.  It is an engaging movie.  It stars Jane Fonda and Kris Kristofferson and their romantic pairing was the focus of the film's marketing which truly is not the most interesting thing about the film.  Fonda's role could have been played by anybody as it is a nothing role with no depth and Fonda does absolutely nothing with it.  Actually, the movie would have worked better if it had been played by a lesser star, since the plot was apparently molded to make her a more active part of things.  Kristofferson impresses* as a Wall Street cowboy who stumbles upon a financial conspiracy, and if the movie had been able to concentrate on his investigations it would have been much better.  As it is, Fonda also stumbles upon the conspiracy, so we get to see her investigate as well.

Spoiler:

The plot itself is about what would happen if Arabs pulled ALL of their money out of Foreign banks at the same time (it would be bad), and indeed this is what happens at the end (and it is bad).  Such an action would essentially plunge the world into a worldwide depression.  As the film ends that's where we stand, although it should be pointed out that this occurs directly due to something that Jane Fonda's character does.  So, really, it's all her fault.

End Spoiler:

* I've been thinking that Kristofferson is underrated as an actor.  He doesn't make typical choices in his acting, and is never less than 100% believable in everything I've seen him in.  The fact that he could so convincingly play a Wall Street financial wiz is truly impressive, considering the whole southern shitkicker vibe he puts out.  I do like him better in a beard, however.