The Hot Spot is a 1990 neo-noir crime thriller directed by Dennis Hopper and based on the novel Hell Hath No Fury by Charles Williams. The film centers around a drifter named Harry Madox (played by Don Johnson) who arrives in a small Texas town looking for work. He gets a job at a used car dealership owned by George Harshaw (played by Jerry Hardin) and begins a torrid affair with the boss's wife, Dolly (played by Virginia Madsen).
As Harry becomes more involved with Dolly, he discovers that she and George are involved in an embezzlement scheme that involves the local bank. Harry sees this as an opportunity to make some money and hatches a plan to rob the bank. Meanwhile, he also catches the attention of the local law enforcement, including deputy Ray Hartman (played by Barry Corbin) and the corrupt Sheriff Gaines (played by William Sadler), who is also involved in the embezzlement scheme.
As Harry navigates his way through the dangerous web of deceit and betrayal, he finds himself falling deeper into the scheme and unsure of who to trust. The film is a moody, atmospheric thriller with a sultry jazz score by Jack Nitzsche. It is notable for its steamy love scenes between Johnson and Madsen, as well as the dynamic performances by the supporting cast. Despite its critical acclaim, The Hot Spot was a commercial failure, but has since gained a cult following.