Burt Reynolds proves himself a capable director in this effort in which he plays Sharky, a tough cop out to uncover a gangster kingpin (Gassman). After his cover is blown during an investigation, Reynolds is demoted to the vice squad, but he manages to mold his new coworkers into a force
that is every bit a match for the gangsters. In an interesting twist on the standard romantic formula, Reynolds falls in love with the high-class hooker he's been staking out (Ward). Loaded with violence and nonstop action, SHARKY'S MACHINE features one of the most complex and dangerous stunts
ever attempted: the 16-floor fall by stuntman Dar Robinson.
Released:
1981
Rated:
R
Length:
122 mins