Heart Condition (1990)
When we talk about Denzel Washington, Heart Condition is not the first movie that comes to mind. Afterall, the Academy award-winning actor is stately and it would seem that a ghostly comedy just would fit his serious nature. Which is probably why we hadn’t ever seen him take that type of role. The fans and critics agreed.
Hal Hinson of the Washington Post had this to say, “the film is caught somewhere between seriousness and cheesy exploitation.” Final domestic box office numbers indicated the movie only grossed $4 million.
Earlier this year Vulture ranked 47 of Denzel Washington movies and Heart Condition was ranked dead last. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times was also dismissive of the film. “The movie is all over the map, trying whatever seems to work at the moment.” A racist murder mystery does make for an interesting plot. However, the plot appeared poorly executed and carried an overall chaotic tone. Other minute details meant to enhance scenes, such as background music just weren’t a good fit.