Target (1985) Apr 2026

Filmed across Hamburg and Paris, the movie uses its locations to build a genuine sense of international intrigue, avoiding the "studio backlot" feel of lesser 80s thrillers.

Its script—revolving around a family man with a secret double life—prefigured the massive "secret agent dad" trend that would dominate the 2000s and 2010s. Final Verdict: Entertaining and Ambitious

Directed by the legendary ( Bonnie and Clyde ) and starring Gene Hackman and Matt Dillon , Target remains one of the more "unsung" efforts of the decade—and it’s high time for a rewatch. The Hook: A Double Life Revealed Target (1985)

Unlike many modern "retired agent" films (think Taken ), Target spends significant time on the emotional fallout between father and son. Chris has to reconcile the boring dad he knew with the cold-blooded professional he sees in action.

While Target might lean into a few convenient coincidences or "incompetent bad guys," it remains an ambitious and intelligent thriller. It’s a solid piece of 80s filmmaking that prioritizes character just as much as its high-speed car chases. Filmed across Hamburg and Paris, the movie uses

The story kicks off in a deceptively quiet Dallas suburb. Walter Lloyd (Hackman) is a seemingly ordinary lumberyard manager. His son, Chris (Dillon), views him as a "stodgy," overly cautious parent—a typical generational divide.

Are you interested in more or perhaps other films from director Arthur Penn ? Target (1985) - IMDb The Hook: A Double Life Revealed Unlike many

If you're looking to revisit this classic, you can find the Target (1985) Blu-ray or read more community perspectives on IMDb and Letterboxd .