French actress Sophie Marceau made her American film debut in this story in which she plays Bernadette, a woman from Paris who comes to the U.S. after being promised a job. However, upon her arrival, Bernadette learns that she's fallen victim to a hoax; stuck in America, she looks for work while staying with her close friend Shirley (Anne Curry), who is looking for her break as an actress. Their friendship faces a considerable challenge when Bernadette finds herself falling for Shirley's boyfriend. Pacific Pallisades also features Toni Basil, the actress, dancer, and choreographer best known for the hit song "Mickey".

~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide