Raw Deal (1986)
Raw Deal (1986) 
Raw Deal (1986), starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, is a classic ‘80s action film packed with gunfights, one-liners, and revenge-fueled mayhem. Directed by John Irvin, the film delivers a straightforward but entertaining story that plays to Schwarzenegger’s strengths as an action star, though it lacks the depth and polish of his more famous hits like The Terminator (1984) and Predator (1987).
Schwarzenegger plays Mark Kaminsky, a former FBI agent turned small-town sheriff who gets a second chance when his former boss, Harry Shannon (Darren McGavin), recruits him for an off-the-books mission. Shannon’s son was killed by a ruthless mob, and he wants Kaminsky to infiltrate the Chicago underworld and take down crime boss Luigi Patrovita (Sam Wanamaker) from the inside. Posing as a tough enforcer, Kaminsky must work his way up the ranks while staying one step ahead of betrayal and danger.
The film embraces all the trademarks of ‘80s action cinema—explosive shootouts, cheesy one-liners, and a near-invincible protagonist. Schwarzenegger delivers a solid performance, effortlessly embodying the unstoppable, cool-headed action hero. His line, “You should not drink and bake,” is a hilariously random yet memorable moment.
However, Raw Deal lacks the intensity and iconic status of Schwarzenegger’s biggest hits. The pacing can be uneven, and the supporting characters feel underdeveloped. The mobster villains, while serviceable, don’t stand out compared to the larger-than-life antagonists in other ‘80s action flicks.
Despite its flaws, Raw Deal is a fun, no-nonsense action movie for Schwarzenegger fans and lovers of classic ‘80s shoot-’em-ups. It may not be his best, but it still delivers plenty of action-packed entertainment.
