Think Twice Before Jeopardizing Wallet

Mon., Oct. 18, 1999

Dave Rinehart, Ferris

“Double Jeopardy” (Rated R)

“Double Jeopardy” and “The Fugitive.” What do they have in common? Almost everything.

“Double Jeopardy” tells the story of Libby Parsons, who was framed for the murder of her husband so that he and his lover could collect the $2 million in insurance money. While in prison, Libby, played by the lovely Ashley Judd, hears of the double jeopardy condition: no person can be tried for the same murder twice, allowing her to kill her husband without being punished.

But after her release from prison, Libby seems to forget all about seeking revenge on her conniving husband. She only wants her young son back. Traveling across the nation in search of them, Libby is doggedly pursued by her parole officer Travis Lehman, played by Tommy Lee Jones.

“Double Jeopardy’s” faults lay in its rehash of old material, with one scene being an almost frame-by-frame recreation from the Dutch film “The Vanishing.” But the most evident parallels are from “The Fugitive.”

The two films are so similar, in fact, that Jeopardy could work as the third installment in “The Fugitive” series, seeming to welcome the connection by casting Jones as the pursuer.

Jeopardy does, however, have solid entertainment value.

There is a nail-biting escape sequence, great locales and likable characters who keep you interested.

Jones, although not a very versatile actor, provides a genuine, energetic performance as Travis. Even Judd doesn’t disappoint.

If you’re able to catch the budget show, grab a friend and check out “Double Jeopardy.”

Grade: B-

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