With Jim Sabatini

Truth or Dare

Rated: R for language and nudity
Reviewed by: Frank and Chris
Release date: May 10, 1991

At one point in Truth or Dare a voice-over states Madonna is in a race against time. Her race is against aging as it is for everyone, but more so for her as she must quickly make a turn toward a more adult following before her youthful followers turn in another direction.

As a documentary, the Miramax production is effective and interesting. Dark black and white scenes are played against brightly colorful live performances by Madonna and her dancers. Her show is filled with energy and tension, and is just what her audience wants to see. The problem is that her skill and ability is overshadowed by her attempt to push barriers of acceptability just a little further in each performance. In Dick Tracy, her voice, not her antics, made her presence on screen. Madonna should look for more such parts. Truth or Dare is a game the touring group plays. It becomes an excuse to act out obnoxious, adolescent dirty jokes.

Madonna appears to be looking for acceptance from someone (perhaps from her father, who does not agree with her sexual reaches.) She claims to mother her dancers, but doesn't understand that people around her are all just reaching to get a piece of the pie she bakes with her notoriety. Madonna needs to find the truth before the dare passes and she finds herself a lonely woman.