The Rewatch Party 209 - The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)

In this festive episode of The Rewatch Party, Nick, Anthony, Part-Time Dan, and Elise come together to discuss the rewatchability of the action-packed holiday thriller The Long Kiss Goodnight. This year’s annual Christmas movie pick brings some unconventional yuletide cheer, blending Gina Davis’s fierce performance and Samuel L. Jackson’s snarky wit into a perfect mix of action, intrigue, and holiday spirit. The hosts dive into whether this underrated gem deserves a place among traditional seasonal classics.

Nick kicks things off by praising Geena Davis’s portrayal of Samantha Caine, a suburban mom with a dark past as a highly trained assassin. He marvels at the film’s seamless blend of over-the-top action sequences and heartfelt character moments, crediting director Renny Harlin’s ability to keep the holiday spirit alive amidst the chaos. Anthony joins in, applauding the dynamic chemistry between Davis and Samuel L. Jackson, whose comedic timing and charisma elevate the film's enjoyment.

Elise, however, provides a fresh perspective, questioning whether the movie’s heavy reliance on explosive action and quippy one-liners overshadows its attempts at emotional depth. She appreciates the holiday setting but wonders if The Long Kiss Goodnight fully qualifies as a Christmas movie or simply uses the season as a backdrop. Dan, embracing his “part-time” role with gusto, injects humor into the debate by pointing out the film’s most over-the-top moments, keeping the conversation lively and entertaining.

The group ultimately concludes that while The Long Kiss Goodnight might not be everyone’s go-to holiday watch, its mix of thrilling action, dark humor, and memorable performances make it a strong contender for rewatchability. Whether it’s the high-stakes plot or the unconventional holiday vibes, the hosts agree that this film is a fun and explosive addition to any Christmas movie marathon. The episode wraps up with laughter, some spirited debate, and a shared appreciation for the unique charm of this action-packed festive flick.

 

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116908/