I'm Dancing as Fast as I Can

There's really nothing to recommend this dreary, and dreary looking film based on Barbara Gordon's account of her battle with Valium. Too bad this film wasn't around during Gordon's struggle because it has the same sedative effect as Valium. It's a Lifetime Channel-style film that was released by Paramount pictures in 1982 during the Nancy Reagan's "just say no" period, and it deservedly sank without a trace. Clayburgh is a trouper, but she is made to look ridiculous in the over-the-top scenes of her character's drug withdrawal. The film is remarkably barren, lacks genuine conflict, characterization, ambiance, or interest, and it never gets inside the head of its main character. Aside from Clayburgh, the most notable thing about the film is Nicol Williamson's performance as Clayburgh's boy friend; he creates one of the most repellent characters I've ever encountered on stage or screen; surely, not intentionally. The film is directed by the numbers, and ironically this film is less about Valium, than a veritable Valium itself. It's best recommended as a safe, non-habit forming sleep aid.