Dead Heat Poster

Dead Heat 1988

★ 6.2230 votes84 min📅 1988-05-06

"You can't keep a good cop dead."

Dead Heat (1988) delivers a wild blend of action, horror, and sci-fi comedy that follows Detective Roger Mortis, gunned down while chasing a wave of bizarre robberies—only to be revived using cutting-edge re-animation tech.

Director: Mark Goldblatt

Cast

Treat Williams
Treat Williams
Det. Roger Mortis
Joe Piscopo
Joe Piscopo
Det. Doug Bigelow
Lindsay Frost
Lindsay Frost
Randi James
Darren McGavin
Darren McGavin
Dr. Ernest McNab
Vincent Price
Vincent Price
Arthur P. Loudermilk
Robert Picardo
Robert Picardo
Lt. Herzog
Martha Quinn
Martha Quinn
Newscaster
Keye Luke
Keye Luke
Mr. Thule
Clare Kirkconnell
Clare Kirkconnell
Rebecca Smythers
Mel Stewart
Mel Stewart
Captain Mayberry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dead Heat (1988) about?

Dead Heat (1988) follows Detective Roger Mortis, who is killed in the line of duty only to be resurrected using experimental re-animation technology. With a limited window before his second death, Mortis must uncover who murdered him and why—all while battling his own decaying body and a shadowy conspiracy.

Who directed Dead Heat?

Dead Heat (1988) was directed by Mark Goldblatt, known for blending action and dark humor in genre films.

Who stars in Dead Heat?

The film features Treat Williams as Detective Roger Mortis, Joe Piscopo as his partner, and Lindsay Frost, Darren McGavin, and Vincent Price in key roles.

Is Dead Heat (1988) worth watching?

While not a mainstream hit, Dead Heat (1988) is a cult favorite for its unique mix of action, horror, and comedy. Its short runtime, eccentric cast, and offbeat premise make it a fun, if flawed, late-'80s oddity worth a watch for genre fans.

How long is Dead Heat?

Dead Heat (1988) runs for 84 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

Dead Heat (1988): The Undead Cop Thriller You Can't Ignore — Full Movie Info

Dead Heat (1988) delivers a wild blend of action, horror, and sci-fi comedy that follows Detective Roger Mortis, gunned down while chasing a wave of bizarre robberies—only to be revived using cutting-edge re-animation tech. With just twelve hours before his second and permanent demise, Mortis races against time to uncover the truth behind his own murder. Directed by Mark Goldblatt, the film stars Treat Williams as the undead cop and Joe Piscopo as his sarcastic partner, blending dark humor with explosive set pieces in a neon-soaked, pulp-noir atmosphere.

Packed with eccentric villains, including a chilling performance by Vincent Price, Dead Heat (1988) is a cult gem that explores themes of mortality, redemption, and bureaucracy gone rogue. The story's brisk 84-minute runtime keeps the energy high, balancing gory action with sharp one-liners and a satirical edge. It's a movie that refuses to stay dead—just like its relentless hero.