Blaze has the kind of unique historical story that should translate well onto the big screen.

No such luck.

Paul Newman stars as Earl K. Long, the former governor of Louisiana, whose liaison with an exotic dancer damages his political career. Newcomer Lolita Davidovich is dancer Blaze Starr, the real-life "story-teller," whose naivete leads her into a career in stripping.

Newman does a fine job as the unorthodox Long, providing evidence as to why the dubious leader was called crazy by some. His energetic performance is captivating to watch.

Davidovich is also a bright star in the film. Her spunky portrayal of the artist is witty and enjoyable.

The biggest problem with Blaze is a slow start which never allows the film to spark. From moment one, the film has trouble connecting, and the information expected is not delivered.

Writer / director Ron Shelton leaves nothing to the imagination in his excruciatingly conservative adaptation of the famous affair. The film calls for explosive creativity and Shelton's direction is highly uninventive.

Another flaw is the film's tendency not to take advantage of quality performers. From the slimy show business promoter to the core of yes- men, the film is full of interesting supporting characters. The film does not utilize these players, however.

The film's title is also ambiguous. "Blaze" suggests the story will most likely concentrate on the heroine, Blaze Starr. This is not the case. Most of the action focuses on how Earl Long is affected by Blaze Starr, so much so that Starr almost becomes an appendage to Long.

Many of Davidovich's scenes by herself are in the ominous dance hall, producing often vulgar results. It is a credit to Davidovich that she looks entirely comfortable in the role.

The film also gets weighed down with a lot of unintelligible political drivel. The movie's governmental aspects are intriguing, but -- like the supporting characters -- are not fully used. These aspects are explained only on a surface level, making them confusing and seemingly unimportant. Yet, these events are important to the overall scheme of things and cannot be treated on such a superficial level.

Blaze also becomes tedious and predictable by the end, tailspinning into boredom and insipidity. The confusion ladled by the wallowing in bureaucratic issues is too much to process effectively and there is a tendency to lose interest altogether.

If the emphasis had been placed more on the tryst between Long and Starr, the film would have been much more enjoyable.

The film is not all cold. The atmosphere of the time seems authentic and the love affair between the "fine governor" and Starr appears genuine.

Newman's superlative performance -- giving vibrant life to the eccentric leader -- also brings the film back from oblivion. Davidovich's handling of both her physical and emotional scenes gives her a film veteran's air.

Blaze does follow through in its main purpose. Shelton is trying to present historical information in an entertaining way; for the most part, he does so. It is only when he diverges from the entertainment and tries to explore political issues that the film wanes.

Blaze is the kind of film to see for solid performances and attractive atmosphere, but not for much else.