Introduction to Criss Cross and Goldie Hawn’s role
Criss Cross is a 1986 American crime drama directed by Chris Menges and starring Goldie Hawn, Burt Reynolds, and Gene Hackman. In the film, Hawn plays Anna, a dancer whose life intersects with a doomed heist and a volatile ex-husband, weaving a tense story about fate, regret, and limited second chances. This evergreen profile explains the movie’s premise, Hawn’s character and performance, key cast and crew, and how the film fits into her broader career, drawing on verified production details and critical context.
Verified production details for Criss Cross
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 1986 | Studio records |
| Director | Chris Menges | Credits, trade press |
| Writer | Scott Frank (screenplay) | Credits, interviews |
| Studio | Gladden Entertainment | Company filings |
| Runtime | 107 minutes | Distributor materials |
| MPAA rating | R | Classification records |
| Box office (worldwide) | Approximately $14 million | Box office databases |
| Major locations | Filmed in Texas | Production notes |
Plot summary without spoilers
Criss Cross follows a former crook drawn back into a meticulously planned heist in a small Texas town. Goldie Hawn’s character, Anna, is a dancer whose relationship with the lead thief creates emotional stakes amid the criminal scheme. The narrative emphasizes tension, regret, and the fragile possibility of redemption, culminating in a tone that balances grit with melancholy.
Key cast and crew involved
- Goldie Hawn as Anna
- Burt Reynolds as Steve
- Gene Hackman as Modine
- Director: Chris Menges
- Screenplay: Scott Frank
Goldie Hawn’s career context around Criss Cross
By 1986, Goldie Hawn had already established herself as a leading comedic and dramatic talent, earning an Academy Award for Best Actress for Cactus Flower (1969) and building a reputation for charismatic, nuanced performances. Criss Cross arrived during a phase in which she pursued darker, more complex roles, signaling a shift from pure comedy toward layered dramatic work. The film exemplifies her willingness to take challenging parts within crime and relationship-driven stories.
Performance highlights for Anna
Hawn’s portrayal of Anna balances vulnerability and resilience. She conveys the character’s emotional history through subtle gestures and measured dialogue, avoiding melodrama even in heightened moments. Reviewers at the time noted her ability to anchor the film’s human element amid the crime plot, offering a performance that felt restrained yet deeply felt.
Reception and contemporary reviews
Criss Cross received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising the atmospheric direction and strong ensemble cast while debating the film’s narrative focus. Many highlighted Goldie Hawn’s work as a standout element, appreciating her departure from purely comedic fare. Over time, the film has been discussed in retrospective articles and festival screenings for its thoughtful treatment of fate and regret.
Notable critical points
- Hawn’s performance was frequently cited as sincere and controlled.
- Menges’ direction was noted for its visual restraint and tension.
- Some critics felt the story leaned unevenly between crime drama and character study.
How Criss Cross fits in Goldie Hawn’s filmography
In the broader arc of Goldie Hawn’s career, Criss Cross represents an important dramatic turn, bridging her early comedic successes and later varied roles. The film is often mentioned in retrospectives exploring her range, particularly for dramatic projects in the 1980s. While not a blockbuster, it remains a notable entry for viewers studying her work beyond mainstream comedies.
Quick comparison of notable 1980s roles
| Film | Year | Character type | General tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criss Cross | 1986 | Anna, dancer | Crime drama, tense |
| Private Benjamin | 1980 | BJ Pogue | Comedy |
| Overboard | 1987 | Joanna Stayton | Romantic comedy |
| Bird | 1988 | Bird York | Dramatic biopic |
Cultural footprint and legacy
Criss Cross is not among the most widely discussed films in mainstream cinema, but it maintains steady interest in niche circles and among fans of crime dramas from the 1980s. For Goldie Hawn, the film contributes to a broader understanding of her artistic choices, highlighting her readiness to engage with complex, sometimes somber material. Retrospective reviews and festival programs occasionally reference the movie when mapping her dramatic range.
Where to watch and availability
Availability of Criss Cross varies by region and platform, often appearing on specialty streaming services or physical media collections focused on 1980s cinema. Viewers are encouraged to check current listings on major digital storefronts or subscription services, as licensing can change over time.