Positive I.D. (1987): The Forgotten Neo-Noir Universal Thought Could Be the Next Blood Simple - The 80s Movie Podcast

In this episode of The 80s Movie Podcast, host Edward Havens continues the Produced and Abandoned series with Positive I.D. (1987), a neo-noir thriller that briefly caught Hollywood's attention before disappearing from theaters. The film follows Julie Kenner, a woman who survives a brutal assault and reinvents herself after her attacker leaves prison. However, her search for justice soon turns into a dangerous quest for revenge. Along the way, we explore how writer-director Andy Anderson financed the project independently and generated strong festival buzz. Universal Pictures acquired the film and positioned it as a potential breakout hit. In addition, we examine Stephanie Rascoe Myers' performance and the film's blend of psychological drama, noir influences, and revenge thriller elements. The story focuses on identity, trauma, and the consequences of taking control through deception. At the same time, we look at how Positive I.D. became another Produced and Abandoned story. Despite studio support and positive attention, Universal gave the film a limited release and quickly moved on when audiences failed to appear. Furthermore, we discuss why the film deserves a second look from fans of forgotten thrillers and independent cinema. Whether you enjoy neo-noir mysteries or stories about movies that slipped through the cracks, this episode revisits a fascinating film that Hollywood produced, promoted, and then largely abandoned.