Watch Keys to Tulsa

Keys to Tulsa is a 1997 film that features Eric Stoltz, James Spader, and Deborah Kara Unger. The movie is a crime drama set in the town of Tulsa in Oklahoma. Directed by Leslie Greif and co-written with Harley Peyton, this indie flick is a dark and gritty tale about power, greed and control. The film follows the life of Richter Boudreau (Eric Stoltz), a struggling writer who returns to his hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma for the first time in three years. He comes back for his best friend's wedding, but he's also there to explore a potentially lucrative business opportunity. Richter's old acquaintance, Ronnie Stover (James Spader), is a wealthy businessman involved in shady deals and the criminal underworld. He offers Richter a job as a loan officer with a steady salary and generous benefits--enough money to get him out of his financial woes. Richter agrees to the job, however, he quickly finds out that his involvement with Stover comes with a steep price.

The plot thickens when Richter is seduced by Ronnie's sexy mistress, Cherry (Deborah Kara Unger). Cherry is a femme fatale with her own agenda, willing to go to great lengths to protect her interests. Richter is caught in the middle of a dangerous game of manipulation, as he tries to balance his job and his love affair with Cherry.

Keys to Tulsa is an engaging story that explores the complexities of power and the struggle for control, particularly in the small town setting. It's a mixture of thriller and drama, where the lines between good and evil are blurred. The film's fast-paced narrative and the characters' intense emotional depth make it an enjoyable watch. The film focuses on the human condition rather than just the plot, which makes it more relatable and poignant.

Eric Stoltz delivers a solid performance as Richter Boudreau. His character is the anchor of the film, and he carries it with ease. He imbues Richter with a relatable sense of vulnerability, making him an approachable protagonist. James Spader's portrayal of the various facets of Ronnie Stover is masterful. He is charismatic and manipulative, a charming villain who can be both friendly and deadly. Deborah Kara Unger injects energy into the film as Cherry, playing a captivating character that draws the audience into her worldly ways.

The film's supporting cast also deserve kudos for their performances. Cameron Diaz portrays Richter's ex-girlfriend, Trudy, who serves as an anchor for Richter's morality. She puts pressure on him to do the right thing despite the temptations and the danger that surround him. Michael Rooker plays Tommy O'Neil, a cop who is obsessed with nailing Stover at all costs, and has his own demons to deal with. These characters are instrumental in building the tension and the drama of the movie.

The film's soundtrack is noteworthy. The music is an eclectic mix of blues and rock that complements the film's mood and its Tulsa roots. The music also helps to enhance the film's cinematic experience, adding another layer of depth to the storytelling.

Keys to Tulsa was well-received by critics, but it flew under the radar of general audiences, possibly because it was an independent film. Nonetheless, it stands out as an impressive effort, showcasing the talents of all involved. The movie deserves a revisit, as it still resonates with relevant themes and includes strong performances.

In conclusion, Keys to Tulsa is a gritty crime drama that delves into the darker corners of life in small town America. The film features a talented cast who embody their respective roles, with nuanced performances that add depth to the characters. The film's themes and storytelling bring a fresh perspective to the genre, making it an insightful and satisfying watch.

Keys to Tulsa is a 1995 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.