Set in the Bahamas, this mystery/thriller which features black actors in the leads (Denzel Washington as Xavier Quinn, police chief; and Robert Townsend as Maubee, suspected murderer) is long on style and brilliant, sunny color, but rather thin on story. When a white businessman is found in two parts floating in his jacuzzi, the government tries to put the finger on local legendary petty criminal Maubee; but Quinn, who grew up with Maubee, suspects there's a cover-up involved. To make matters worse, Quinn's marriage to a struggling reggae singer is on the rocks (his marriage seems to be there primarily for numerous excursions into colorful reggae tunes). The grand finale reveals a twist more complicated than the lackadaisical story really warrants. Good music, good performances from the two leads (one only wishes that the comically talented Townsend were onscreen more), and a picture postcard filming of the Bahamas make this an enjoyable film, if not entirely satisfying. Recommended for larger fiction collections. (R. Pitman)
The Mighty Quinn
color. 98 min. CBS/Fox Home Video. (1989). $89.95. Rated: R. Library Journal
The Mighty Quinn
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