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Dogfight is a 1991 romantic drama film set in San Francisco in 1963. The movie stars River Phoenix as Eddie Birdlace, a Marine who has just completed his basic training and is ready to head off to Vietnam. Eddie and his fellow Marines decide to spend their last night in the city by participating in a "dogfight," a cruel game in which each soldier puts money into a pot, and the one who brings the ugliest date to a party wins the pot.

Eddie, down on his luck and looking for a girl to bring, meets Rose Fenny (Lili Taylor), a shy and awkward waitress. Eddie invites Rose to the party, unaware that she is the target of a cruel joke. Rose is mistreated and humiliated by the other Marines, who mock her looks and her innocence. However, as the night progresses, Eddie realizes that Rose is not just any girl, but a kind-hearted person, and he begins to feel attracted to her.

The story of Dogfight revolves around Eddie and Rose's budding romance. As the night wears on, Eddie tries to make amends for his cruel behavior and earn Rose's forgiveness. The two spend the night walking around San Francisco, talking, laughing and learning about each other. The chemistry between Phoenix and Taylor is palpable, and their performances make the audience root for their unlikely relationship.

The film deals with themes of cruelty, forgiveness, and growing up. The Marines are portrayed as young, foolish boys, eager for adventure and unaware of the consequences of their actions. Eddie is forced to confront the realities of life and death in the war he is about to enter. Through his relationship with Rose, he learns about the importance of kindness and empathy.

The movie also features a fantastic soundtrack, composed mainly of early 60s music. The songs add to the atmosphere of the film, transporting the audience back to a time of innocence and rebellion. The movie's attention to detail, from the costumes to the sets, creates a believable and immersive world that enhances the storytelling.

Dogfight was directed by Nancy Savoca, who has a talent for creating authentic and relatable characters. The movie is based on a play by Bob Comfort, and the screenplay was written by Savoca and her husband, Richard Guay. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was released to critical acclaim. The performances of Phoenix and Taylor were highly praised, with many critics calling it one of their finest roles.

In conclusion, Dogfight is a moving and unforgettable film that deals with complex themes in a sensitive and authentic way. The stunning performances by Phoenix and Taylor elevate the movie to another level, making it a must-see for fans of romantic dramas. The movie is a testament to the power of forgiveness and empathy, and it will leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

Dogfight is a 1991 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 56.