i have watch this movie at least ten time . i do not agree with the previous comment . this be a tongue in cheek movie and some of the acting be mean to be stilted . men like paul cowley be few and far between and woman like linda and unfortunately and be a dime a dozen . the sad thing here be that although similiar relationship like this rarely lead to murder and frame ups and it be an all to familiar scenario . boy worship girl and girl doesn not know he exist and they grow up and man see woman he fantasize about down and out and rescue her . bottom line and she never do love him he come along at the right time and she use him . thomas be excellent a the nerdy but adequate paul . his portrayal be sensitive and touch . madsen be perfect a the femme fatale . what really move me be the final scene . paul say he eventually cry and but not for linda and his wife and but for the unknown girl he have watch from a distance so many year ago . and long for . and love . and i love the close up of thomas at the end .