Samuel L. Jackson, a household name in Hollywood for decades, has delivered many memorable performances, yet some of his finest work remains underappreciated. One such movie, The Long Kiss Goodnight, starring Jackson in a compelling role, became available for free streaming on Tubi starting November 1st. This release grants new audiences a chance to experience what many consider one of Samuel L. Jackson’s best movies.
The Underappreciated Thriller Featuring Samuel L. Jackson
The Long Kiss Goodnight, directed by Renny Harlin and penned by Shane Black, is an action thriller that did not receive the widespread acclaim it deserved upon its initial release in 1996. Jackson plays Mitch Henessey, a private investigator who teams up with an amnesiac schoolteacher played by Geena Davis. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Davis’ character, Samantha, harbors a secret identity as a highly skilled government assassin. Despite its intriguing premise, the film’s box office returns were modest, earning $96 million worldwide against a $65 million budget. Nevertheless, it remains a hidden gem in Jackson’s extensive filmography.
What Makes The Long Kiss Goodnight Stand Out in Jackson’s Career?
The Long Kiss Goodnight is notable for showcasing a different side of Samuel L. Jackson’s acting range. Unlike his iconic intense roles such as Jules Winnfield in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction or Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Jackson’s portrayal of Mitch Henessey is layered with vulnerability and humor. Mitch starts as a quirky, somewhat unpolished private detective but gradually becomes a resourceful and loyal ally throughout the film. This evolution highlights Jackson’s ability to blend action with sharp comedic timing, a dynamic accentuated by Shane Black’s clever screenplay.
The chemistry between Jackson and Geena Davis is another significant factor elevating the film. Their contrasting personalities and unexpected partnership weave together suspense, humor, and emotional depth, distinguishing the movie from a typical action thriller. While The Long Kiss Goodnight holds a 67% critic rating and a 70% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it is often regarded by fans and Jackson himself as one of his standout performances.
Recent Additions to Tubi’s Streaming Selection
Alongside The Long Kiss Goodnight, Tubi expanded its free streaming lineup on November 1st with a broad selection of films, including several thrillers that appeal to diverse tastes. New arrivals include notable titles such as Death Wish, No Country for Old Men, Pride & Glory, and Trapped. Tubi also added other popular movies like Face/Off, Titanic, and Space Jam, enhancing its catalog for viewers seeking a variety of genres without subscription fees.
The Cultural Impact and Future Interest
Bringing The Long Kiss Goodnight to a free streaming platform like Tubi opens up the opportunity for new audiences to discover a film that blends sharp writing, thrilling action, and compelling performances by stars like Samuel L. Jackson and Geena Davis. This release not only revives interest in a film that was previously overlooked but also reinforces Jackson’s reputation as a versatile actor capable of tackling different genres and character types. As streaming platforms continue to curate classic and hidden gems, movies like this one may gain the recognition they initially missed, contributing to Samuel L. Jackson’s enduring legacy in Hollywood.
