Jacknife

Plot

Joseph Megessey (known to most as "Megs") is a Vietnam War veteran who has post-traumatic stress syndrome, and who is having trouble integrating with society. He finds Dave, a fellow veteran who has become an alcoholic, and attempts to bring him out of his depression by encouraging him to enjoy life again, as well as urging him to face some of his darker memories.

Megs is attracted to Dave's sister Martha, who lives with Dave and looks after him. Megs and Martha fall in love, much to Dave's disapproval. Dave eventually vents his anger and frustration at a high-school prom at which Martha is a chaperone who is accompanied by Megs. This leads Dave to finally face his demons and acknowledge Megs and Martha for being there for him. Afterward, despite initially ending what was a promising romance, Megs returns to Martha.

Cast

Robert De Niro as Joseph "Megs" Megessey

Ed Harris as Dave

Kathy Baker as Martha

Sloane Shelton as Shirley

Ivar Brogger as Depot Mechanic

Michael Arkin as Dispatcher

Tom Isbell as Bobby Buckman

Kirk Taylor as Helicopter Gunner

Jordan Lund as Tiny

Tom Rack as William Green

Charles S. Dutton as Jake, Veteran Encounter Group Leader (as Charles Dutton)

Bruce Ramsay as Corridor Student

Jessalyn Gilsig as His Girlfriend

George Gerdes as Tony

Josh Pais as Rick

Loudon Wainwright III as Ferretti

Walter Massey as Ed Buckman

Elizabeth Franz as Pru Buckman

Production

The movie was filmed in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, as well as several Connecticut locations, including Meriden, Wallingford, Newington, New Britain and Newtown.

Reception

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 64% of 14 critics' reviews are positive.