Rediscovering The Long Kiss Goodnight: Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson’s Underrated Action Gem
The Long Kiss Goodnight, now streaming on Paramount+, is a criminally overlooked action movie starring Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson. Directed by Renny Harlin and written by Shane Black, this 1996 film blends high-octane action, dark humor, and a unique storyline that set it apart from its genre counterparts. While not a blockbuster hit upon release, The Long Kiss Goodnight has since garnered a cult following for its progressive female lead and its status as a lesser-known Christmas action classic.
The Plot: A Schoolteacher Turned Assassin
Geena Davis stars as Samantha Caine, a seemingly ordinary schoolteacher and single mother suffering from amnesia. Unaware of her past, Samantha lives a quiet life until a car accident triggers memories of her previous identity: Charly Baltimore, a lethal government assassin. As her past unravels, dangerous men who believed her dead resurface, threatening her and her daughter. Samantha teams up with private investigator Mitch Hennessey, played by Samuel L. Jackson, to stop these terrorists from carrying out a catastrophic attack on Christmas Eve.
Geena Davis: A Bold Female Action Hero
Geena Davis’ portrayal of Samantha/Charly is nothing short of iconic. In a genre dominated by male leads, Davis’ transformation from a kind schoolteacher to a knife-wielding assassin was ahead of its time. One of the film’s most memorable sequences involves her character being submerged in freezing water, only to emerge as the fierce Charly, shedding her old life to embrace her deadly past. Davis balances vulnerability and strength in this role, making it one of her personal favorites. Her character paved the way for future female action heroes, though the film didn’t receive the recognition it deserved upon release.
Samuel L. Jackson: The Secret Weapon
Samuel L. Jackson’s performance as Mitch Hennessey provides much of the film’s comic relief, a refreshing change from his usual intense roles. His laid-back, humorous approach adds levity to the action-packed scenes, making his chemistry with Davis a standout element of the movie. Jackson has even mentioned The Long Kiss Goodnight as one of his favorite films to watch, further proving its staying power among fans.
With thrilling action, witty dialogue, and a female lead ahead of her time, The Long Kiss Goodnight is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your must-watch list. Now available on Paramount+, it’s time for this cult classic to get the recognition it always deserved.
