Amazon.com
This is the movie that caused Premiere magazine's mythical columnist Libby Gelman-Waxner to occasionally break into convulsive shouts of "Dennis! Dennis! Dennis!" Directed by Jim McBride (Great Balls of Fire!) and released in 1987, this New Orleans mystery-romance features Quaid and costar Ellen Barkin as sexy adversaries on opposite sides of a police scandal. While Quaid's grinning, seductive detective investigates a series of mob-related murders, Barkin's assistant district attorney looks into allegations of an entire cop force on the take--a charge that applies to the slick hero as well. The snappy, buoyant tone of cop camaraderie, the hoodoo lure of New Orleans culture, and the Cajun soundtrack (including a brief performance by Quaid) make this an enormously appealing film, while the ethical dilemma at the heart of the love story keeps one guessing about where things are going. The film includes a wonderful supporting performance by Ned Beatty, and a pre-stardom role for John Goodman. The DVD includes a great-looking widescreen presentation, cast and crew information, original trailer, and Spanish, English, and French subtitles. --Tom Keogh

Amazon.com
An atmospheric and sexy crime caper, this stars Dennis Quaid as a New Orleans police detective. He's a smooth talker who butts heads with the new assistant district attorney, Ellen Barkin. She's rigid and plays by the rules; he is mildly corrupt. They soon find themselves romantically entwined, and a bit chagrined.

Director Jim McBride (Great Balls of Fire) was in top form with this 1987 sizzler. You may not remember the particulars of the plot, which concerns supposed gang killings and police corruption, because it is the romance that has staying power. Blame this on Quaid and Barkin, who send off enough sparks to light up Bourbon Street. They are not only sexy together, but endearing, which makes you want to like them as much as they like each other. --Rochelle O'Gorman