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  • Back to the Future Part II (1989)

    Back to the Future Part II (1989)

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    Though having a cliffhanger ending, director Robert Zemeckis never thought a sequel to Back to the Future would happen. However, upon its July 3rd, 1985 release, the film grossed over $381 million worldwide and was the year’s highest-grossing film. Combined with the overwhelming praise from critics, Universal immediately wanted a sequel, so Zemeckis agreed, but only on one condition. He’d only do it if Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd would return, which thankfully they both agreed to return. However, making the sequel had its own problems, namely when it came to getting the rest of the original cast. While they got both Lea Thompson and Thomas F. Wilson came back, Crispin Glover and Claudia Wells wouldn’t return. After finishing 1988’s Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Zemeckis and company set off to make a sequel worthy of the original. So, in 1989, Back to the Future Part II was finally released.

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    Synopsis

    Continuing from before, Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd), and Jennifer Parker (Elisabeth Shue) travel to 2015. They arrive to straighten things out with Marty’s son when they unwittingly meet old man Biff Tannen (Thomas F. Wilson). Unfortunately, Biff ends up stealing the Delorean and uses it to travel back in time to change his fate. Marty, Doc, and Jennifer return to 1985 only to find it in a chaotic state where Biff is in charge. Turns out old Biff gave young Biff a Sports Almanac Marty bought in 2015 so he could get rich. After leaving Jennifer back in 1985, Marty and Doc travel back to 1955 to retrieve and destroy the almanac. At the same time, they must make sure that what they did in the first film isn’t undone. It’s a race against time to make sure the timelines are restored.

     

    Review

    Making a worthwhile sequel to such a monumental film as Back to the Future was never going to be easy. Thankfully, while it’s not quite as good, Back to the Future Part II still succeeds at building on the original. Once again, Fox and Lloyd work well as a duo, trading back-and-forths and matching each other’s energy fairly well. Lea Thompson is given much more to do since we get both 1955 Lorraine and an alternate 1985 Lorraine. The latter is shown to be a sad wreck with plastic surgery who’s an alcoholic that’s been beaten into submission. However, Thomas F. Wilson steals the show playing 2015 Biff, alternate 1985 Biff, 1955 Biff, and even Biff’s grandson Griff. This film does an amazing job taking a stock bully character and making him a force to be reckoned with. Even George “Buck” Flower makes another appearance.

    Unfortunately, the recasting is pretty obvious right from the beginning when you see Elisabeth Shue instead of Claudia Wells. Shue isn’t terrible, but it’s distracting, though not as much as the lengths they went to barely show Crispin Glover. In addition to having actor Jeffrey Weissman standing in, they also use strategically-placed close-ups that show Thompson but not Glover. Also, there are story elements added that make no sense, namely how Marty is triggered when someone calls him “chicken”. This was never established or alluded to in the first film, so it feels forced and out-of-place here. On a more positive note, the technology they created to show multiple versions of one actor at once is impressive. Plus, the film asks questions about how time travel should be used and how one tiny thing can change everything. Overall, Back to the Future Part II is an enjoyable if flawed follow-up.

     

    Buy Back to the Future Part II on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AIVNMl.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

     

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    Where to watch Back to the Future Part II (1989)

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  • Back to the Future (1985)

    Back to the Future (1985)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video src=”https://youtu.be/go8xI5LH9_I” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.0″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Following the release of Used Cars in 1980, writer Bob Gale thought of an idea for a time-travel movie. While visiting family in St. Louis, Gale thought if he would’ve been friends with his dad in high school. With that, he brought his idea to director Robert Zemeckis, who immediately loved it, and they took it to Columbia. Unfortunately, Columbia and various other studios turned the script down for being too light-hearted compared to other teen comedies. Around this time, Zemeckis went off to shoot Romancing the Stone, which ended up being a huge hit in 1984. Following its success, Zemeckis and Gale presented their concept to Steven Spielberg, who agreed to produce it through Amblin Entertainment. In the end, the film got picked up Universal and was given a $19 million budget despite its risky nature. Finally, on July 3rd, 1985, Back to the Future was released to theaters.

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    Synopsis

    Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is an average high schooler with a beautiful girlfriend in Jennifer Parker (Claudia Wells). However, Marty also likes to hang out with the eccentric Doctor Emmett “Doc” Brown (Christopher Lloyd) as his assistant. One night, Doc asks Marty to meet him at the mall to show him his latest invention: a time-traveling Delorean. Unfortunately, Doc gets shot by Libyan terrorists, and Marty escapes in the Delorean, unexpectedly traveling to the past. Marty arrives in 1955 and almost immediately meets his younger parents George (Crispin Glover) and Lorraine (Lea Thompson). He also runs into local bully Biff Tannen (Thomas F. Wilson), who constantly picks on George and soon threatens Marty. Once he meets young Doc, Marty convinces him to help get back to his own time, but there’s a catch. Lorraine’s fallen in love with Marty, so he has to make sure his parents get together.

     

    Review

    Back to the Future is a film that defined the 1980s despite how much of a gamble it was. First off, the cast is wonderful, especially because they all play their roles completely straight, which adds to the comedy. Fox is instantly likable as Marty McFly, having great comedic timing and perfectly reacting to everything around him. Lloyd is wonderfully eccentric as Doc Brown, able to play it straight while managing to act over-the-top without being annoying. Glover is both off-putting and loveable, Thompson is overtly sweet and beautiful, and Wilson steals the show as the bully. There are also some fun appearances from character actors George “Buck” Flower, Will Hare, Courtney Gaines, and even Huey Lewis. Speaking of, his songs “Power of Love” and “Back in Time” are instantly catchy and will stick with you. Also, Alan Silvestri’s score adds to the scope and gives the film added weight.

    What also makes Back to the Future so special are the themes it touches on, specifically on family and time. The film reminds us that, while we may have disagreements with our parents, they’re still responsible for us being here. It also makes you realize how fleeting time can be and how we should be willing to take chances. Even though some have criticized the ending’s implications, it does show how one little change can make a huge difference. As phenomenal as the film is, there are a few shortcomings, namely that some of the humor is slightly on-the-nose. There are tons of jokes about how something old in 1985 is new in 1955, and they start running thin. Even then, this is still one of those films I would classify as being perfect, if not a masterpiece. Overall, Back to the Future is a classic that’s worth revisiting.

     

    Buy Back to the Future on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cIza86.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

     

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    Where to watch Back to the Future (1985)

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  • Robot Jox (1989)

    Robot Jox (1989)

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    After directing three back-to-back horror films, Stuart Gordon decided his next film would tackle a whole new genre: science-fiction. At the time, he was a fan of the Japanese Transformers toys as well as the Macross anime series. He noted that while giant robots were done in animation, no one at the time tried a live-action version. Following the release of Dolls, Gordon presented his concept to Charles Band, who was initially reluctant due to high costs. Eventually, Band reconsidered after Gordon presented him a demo reel featuring stop-motion animation from David Allen of robots in action. Gordon wrote the script alongside sci-fi writer Joel Haldeman, who clashed with him over their different visions of the film. With a budget of roughly $10 million, it would be the most expensive film Empire Pictures ever produced. After a delayed release due to Empire’s bankruptcy, Robot Jox was released in 1990.

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    Synopsis

    In the future, war has been abolished, and all global conflicts are settled through one-on-one combat using giant robots. These robots are piloted by robot jox aka robot jockeys, each representing either the Western Market or the Eastern Confederation. The Confederation champion Alexander (Paul Koslo) has killed his previous opponents, and next is the Market champion Achilles (Gary Graham). During their match, Alexander launches a projectile towards some nearby spectators, and Achilles blocks it only to fall, crushing them. Shaken up by this, Achilles announces his retirement, and he is subsequently labeled a traitor and a coward. Genetically-bred jox Athena (Anne-Marie Johnson) replaces him, but Achilles has second thoughts and decides to come out of retirement. It’s soon discovered that there might be a spy in the Market who’s giving secrets to the Confederation. Who is this spy, what will happen to Athena, and will Alexander be defeated?

     

    Review

    Considering Empire Pictures’ state of affairs at the time, it’s impressive Robot Jox got made at all. At the time, Empire was going through massive debt, so spending $10 million on an ambitious sci-fi film was risky. Thankfully, with a talented director, effects crew, and cast, this is quite a fun ride, even if disjointed at times. Like his previous films, Gordon’s direction is top-notch, really giving it a sense of scale and larger than it is. Performance-wise, everyone does a commendable job, even if their characters are more or less stock characters, though it is intentional. Gary Graham works as the hardheaded hero with a heart of gold, and Koslo is fun as the stereotypical villain. Johnson does well as the female lead trying to prove herself, though she becomes Graham’s love interest, which is odd. Also noteworthy are appearances from regulars Robert Sampson, Jeffrey Combs, and Carolyn Purdy-Gordon.

    The special effects from David Allen and his team are some of their best work, arguably their best work. The stop motion animation is fantastic, the robot fight sequences being a massive spectacle and easily the film’s highlight. Just the amount of detail put into the models and the range of movement is impressive given the budget. Admittedly, there’s probably only about 15 minutes of screentime devoted to the robot fights, but it’s still fun to watch. Probably my biggest issue with the film is the inconsistent tone, either being too silly or too dark. Admittedly, this can be chalked up to the disagreements between Haldeman and Gordon, each wanting a different tone. Even with its off-kilter tone and somewhat stock characters, this is still a fun movie to watch, especially with friends. Overall, Robot Jox is a solid if flawed attempt for a director to try different genres.

     

    Buy Robot Jox from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Nvcteg.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

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    Where to watch Robot Jox (1989)

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  • The Lost Boys (1987)

    The Lost Boys (1987)

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    Initially a window dresser, Joel Schumacher realized filmmaking was his passion, so he moved to LA in the early 1970s. While studying at UCLA, he was working as a costume designer on films like Woody Allen’s Sleeper and Interiors. After earning a Master of Fine Arts degree, Schumacher wrote the screenplays for Sparkle, Car Wash, and The Wiz. His first two films as director, The Incredible Shrinking Woman and D.C. Cab, made modest profits and received mixed reviews. His next film, 1985’s St. Elmo’s Fire, was a smash hit, earning over $37 million on a $10 million budget. Following its success, Schumacher was hired by Warner Bros. to direct a film originally offered to Richard Donner. The film was a story of vampires inspired by Peter Pan that also served as a coming of age story. That film would be released in 1987 as The Lost Boys.

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    Synopsis

    Michael (Jason Patric), Sam (Corey Haim), and Lucy Emerson (Dianne Wiest) have just moved into Santa Carla, California. One night, they decide to check out the nearby boardwalk, Lucy looking for work and the boys strolling around. Sam checks out a local comic book store and meets the Frog Brothers, Edgar (Corey Feldman) and Alan (Jamison Newlander). Meanwhile, Michael meets Star (Jamie Gertz), a young woman who hangs out with David (Kiefer Sutherland) and his biker gang. They invite Michael into their group despite Star’s hesitation, but soon Michael discovers things about him are changing. He becomes sensitive to sunlight, his reflection is fading, and he develops a thirst for blood, almost attacking Sam. While Michael battles with his vampirism, Sam recruits the Frog Brothers to figure out who the head vampire is. Will Michael succumb to his vampirism, or will the head vampire be defeated?

     

    Review

    Much like Near Dark, which came out the same year, The Lost Boys is a fantastic modernization of vampire mythology. While that film had a more Western feel, this has a punk rock feel, from the clothes to the music. For being his fourth film, Schumacher shows just how talented he was as a filmmaker, giving this a rich style. He uses tons of shadow, harsh lighting, and deep colors to help create a mood that’s both haunting and inviting. Cast-wise, everyone delivers a fantastic job, with Patric and Haim being solid protagonists. As the villain, Sutherland is very cool and sinister, while the amazingly gorgeous Gertz acts as Michael’s voice of reason. Feldman and Newlander are fun as the Frog Brothers, two guys who take vampirism seriously while everyone else doesn’t. Also noteworthy is Edward Hermann, a seemingly kindly man whose true intentions become clear later on.

    The other three lost boys, played by Brooke McCarter, Billy Wirth, and Alex Winter, unfortunately, aren’t given much to do. On that same note, Wiest and Bernard Hughes have some decent moments, but they also aren’t given much. Also, there are times when the editing can get choppy at times, making it difficult to understand what’s happening. While the soundtrack is great, the song “Cry Little Sister” is played several times throughout, so get used to it. On a more positive note, the makeup effects from Greg Cannom are impressive, especially the vampire designs and gore effects. The film also serves as a nice coming of age story, the vampirism a metaphor for change and finding identity. While it does have its flaws, this is yet another great example of a modern vampire story done well. Overall, The Lost Boys is a fun film to sink your teeth into.

     

    Buy The Lost Boys from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2CwvN8C

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.4.8″][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_blurb title=”Joel Schumacher, 1939 – 2020″ image=”https://staging.film-nerd.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/200622-joel-schumacher-obit-se-212p_58867df7b70cf1a68f457a53a1bf9b26.jpg” alt=”Joel Schumacher, 1939 – 2020″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″]

    This review is dedicated to the memory of filmmaker Joel Schumacher, who passed away on June 22, 2020, at the age of 80.

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  • Ghostbusters II (1989)

    Ghostbusters II (1989)

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    Released in 1984, Ghostbusters was an instant hit, making almost $300 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. With its success, the studio immediately wanted a sequel, but there was some hesitation from the cast and crew. Following the film’s success, the studio teamed up with animation studio DIC Enterprises to produce The Real Ghostbusters in 1986. Despite some confusion with a preexisting cartoon, the series was also a hit, prompting the team to reconsider a sequel. Reitman returned to direct, while Aykroyd and Ramis returned to write and star alongside Murray, Weaver, Hudson, Moranis, and Potts. Since the cartoon was popular with kids, they decided to make the sequel more child-friendly as opposed to the original. Columbia was pushing for the sequel since their last few releases flopped, giving this a $37 million budget. Finally, five years after the original, Ghostbusters II was released in the summer of 1989.

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    Synopsis

    Following the events of the first film, the Ghostbusters have disbanded after being sued for property damage by the city. However, when her baby’s carriage rolls by itself onto an intersection, Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) turns to them for help. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) investigate, discovering an underground river of slime. Unfortunately, they’re arrested and tried for illegal supernatural investigation, but they’re released after capturing some death row ghosts. Meanwhile, Janosz Poha (Peter MacNicol), Dana’s boss at the museum, is enslaved by the spirit of Vigo the Carpathian. Turns out Vigo is getting power from the slime, which is feeding off all the negative emotions in New York. His ultimate plan is to be reborn, so he orders Janosz to kidnap Dana’s baby so he can possess him. With the city in danger, it’s up to the Ghostbusters once again.

     

    Review

    Following up a landmark film like Ghostbusters was no small task, so Ghostbusters II had plenty to live up to. While it isn’t quite on par with the original, the sequel still manages to retain its charm and humor. Everyone in the main cast, from the Ghostbusters to Dana, Louis, and Janine, all do a fantastic job. Newcomer MacNicol as fun as the eccentric Janosz and Kurt Fuller does well filling in for William Atherton. Murray, Aykroyd, and Ramis still have their signature comedic timing, and Hudson gets more to do and say here. The mood slime is a great concept and helps share a message to be nicer and friendlier to one another. There are some fun highlights to be had, including the courtroom scene and the Statue of Liberty scene. Plus, Vigo makes for a good villain, especially with Max Von Sydow providing the voice.

    I think the film’s biggest problems are two-fold: they waited too long and they tried making it too kid-friendly. Though it was popular thanks to the merchandising and cartoon, audiences seemed to lose interest and wanted something different. It doesn’t help that this sequel repeats some of the same plot points from the original almost verbatim. Also, in trying to capitalize on the same audience as the cartoon, they lose much of the first one’s edge. Aside from Vigo and the Scoleri Brothers, all the other ghosts are too goofy and silly to be taken seriously. That said, much like the first film, the effects here are fantastic, especially with ILM handling a majority of them. On the whole, the movie certainly has its flaws, but it’s nowhere near as bad as some critics have said. Overall, Ghostbusters II is an underrated sequel that deserves more credit than it gets.

     

    Buy Ghostbusters II from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3fEhAEP.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

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    Where to watch Ghostbusters II (1989)

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  • Dark Angel: The Ascent (1994)

    Dark Angel: The Ascent (1994)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Much like how Empire Pictures would use Italy, Full Moon Features started shooting their films in Romania and Bucharest. They found success shooting Subspecies in Romania, so films like Oblivion, Lurking Fear, and Mandroid would also be filmed there. Around this time, writer Matthew Bright, who frequently worked with Richard and Danny Elfman, found himself working at Full Moon. He started writing a script that involved horror, romance, and vigilantism that drew its influence from Taxi Driver. Originally to be directed by Jeff Burr, relative newcomer Linda Hassani, who previously worked on Silk Stalkings, was hired. Angela Featherstone, who had a small part in Army of Darkness, was cast in what became her first lead role. Produced for a small budget of $350,000, the film would end up being one of Full Moon’s more unique entries. In 1994, Dark Angel: The Ascent was finally released.

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    Synopsis

    In the depths of hell, young demoness Veronica Iscariot (Angela Featherstone) years to venture up to the mortal world. Her father Hellikin (Nicholas Worth) disapproves and threatens punishment, but Veronica escapes and makes her way to Earth. Soon after arriving, she’s hit by a car, taken to the hospital, and tended by Dr. Max Barris (Daniel Markel). Since she has nowhere else to go, Max decides to let Veronica stay with him in his apartment. While he sleeps, she watches TV and catches a broadcast of Mayor Wharton (Milton James), recognizing his corruption and evil. This motivates her to find evil in the city and dispatch sinners, killing muggers/rapists and racist cops. These murders catch the attention of Detectives Harper (Mike Genovese) and Greenberg (Michael C. Mahon) who are on her trail. Will Veronica succeed in dishing out justice, or will the cops manage to stop her?

     

    Review

    Compared to the likes of Puppet Master, Demonic Toys, and Subspecies, Dark Angel: The Ascent is certainly a unique experience. Much like Meridian: Kiss of the Beast, Dark Angel is an interesting mix of horror, romance, and some vigilante justice. The Taxi Driver comparisons are very apparent, including the lead targeting a politician and taking a date to a porno. On top of that, there’s the lead going on a murder spree in what they see as a holy quest. While not as compelling as Robert De Niro’s Travis Bickle, Angela Featherstone delivers a solid performance as Veronica Iscariot. On top of being stunning to look at, she has a nice, quiet charm mixed in with a subtle intensity. Markel is decent, though a bit bland at times, though Genovese and Mahon do a fine job with their material. Also, Worth has some fun scene-chewing moments early on.

    The practical effects, from the demon prosthetics to the gore effects, are impressive considering the small budget they had. There are also some fairly decent optical effects, but they haven’t held up very well over 25 years later. I’d say the biggest problem with the film is the pacing, namely how it takes a while to get going. After the first 10 minutes in hell, it grinds to a halt as Veronica begins learning about the human world. It isn’t until about the 45-minute mark when she starts going on her vigilante spree and things start picking up. For a relative newcomer, Hassani’s direction is pretty good, taking full advantage of the Romanian locations for an effective atmosphere. While I wouldn’t recommend this to Full Moon first-timers, I’d recommend it to someone looking for something a bit different. Overall, despite its flaws, Dark Angel: The Ascent is worth a watch.

     

    Buy Dark Angel: The Ascent from:

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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    Where to watch Dark Angel: The Ascent (1994)

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  • Ghostbusters (1984)

    Ghostbusters (1984)

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    In the early 1980s, Dan Aykroyd worked on a script based on his fascination with the paranormal and quantum physics. He originally wrote it intending to star alongside Eddie Murphy and John Belushi, but sadly Belushi died in 1982. Aykroyd then turned to his friend and fellow SNL cast member Bill Murray, who agreed to star and replace Belushi. Thanks to his previous success with Animal House, Meatballs, and Stripes, Ivan Reitman was chosen to direct personally by Aykroyd. Aykroyd’s script was considered too large to film, so Harold Ramis (Animal House, Caddyshack, Stripes) was added for further rewrites. Sigourney Weaver, Ernie Hudson, Rick Moranis, Annie Potts, and William Atherton joined the cast for a 6-week New York shoot. Richard Edlund supervised the visual effects, Elmer Bernstein composed the music, and Ray Parker Jr made a tie-in song. Finally, on June 8, 1984, Ghostbusters was released to the general public.

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    Synopsis

    Paranormal scientists Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) are fired from Columbia University. In response, they decide to open their own business, Ghostbusters, where they hunt and capture ghosts for clients. Meanwhile, Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) visits them after something strange happens at her apartment, namely a strange creature growling “Zuul”. Business starts blowing up after they successfully capture a ghost, and hire Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) as the fourth Ghostbuster. Trouble starts brewing when EPA inspector Walter Peck (William Atherton) visits to see the containment unit, threatening a court order. Soon enough, Dana and neighbor Louis Tully (Rick Moranis) get possessed by spirits awaiting the arrival of Gozer the Gozerian. To make matters worse, Peck shuts off the containment unit, releasing all previously captured ghosts and signaling Gozer’s return. With the world’s fate at stake, will the Ghostbusters save the day?

     

    Review

    Ghostbusters is often considered to be one of the best comedies of the 1980s and for good reason. First off, the cast is near perfect, with Murray, Aykroyd, Ramis, and Hudson playing off each other well. As per usual, Murray’s dry wit and smart-alec attitude steal the show, delivering some of the film’s best lines. Aykroyd is fun as the optimist of the group, while Ramis has some great moments with his deadpan delivery. Unfortunately, Hudson doesn’t have much in terms of characterization, but he does work as a straight man to the others. Much like he would later do in Die Hard, Atherton is great as the bad guy you love to hate. Weaver has some solid chemistry with Murray, and Moranis is fun as the affable but goofy neighbor. Also, Annie Potts’ Jeanine has some great banter with the main Ghostbusters, especially with Murray and Ramis.

    The special effects are spectacularly vivid and hold up surprisingly well for a film that’s over 30 years old. There are some cool optical effects, as well as some impressive puppets and animatronics that help make these creatures believable. Reitman directs the film in a way to where it feels more like a horror film than a comedy. Combined with Elmer Bernstein’s score, it helps make the film stand out from other comedies of the time. Oscar-winner John DeCuir’s production design is phenomenal, adding to the film’s scope and giving a sense of scale. With all of the on-site shooting, New York City becomes a character itself, given all the recognizable landmarks and locations. From the NY Public Library to the 8 Hook and Ladder building, these are just as iconic as everything else. Overall, Ghostbusters succeeds thanks to its great cast, fantastic effects, solid direction, and quotable dialogue.

     

    Buy Ghostbusters from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3cS0gdQ.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

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    Where to watch Ghostbusters (1984)

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  • Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song (1971)

    Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song (1971)

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    Originally a cable car grip, Melvin Van Peebles was told to become a filmmaker off the suggestion of a passenger. He filmed some short films around 1957 and tried taking them to Hollywood, but no one would offer him work. Following this, he decided to move with his family to the Netherlands, only for his marriage to fall apart. However, his shorts caught the attention of the Cinémathèque Française, so he filmed another short before moving on to writing. In 1968, Ven Peebles directed his feature film debut, The Story of a Three-Day Pass, which caught Hollywood’s attention. After winning an award at the San Francisco International Film Festival, he directed his first Hollywood feature, 1970’s Watermelon Man. While it was a hit and he was offered a three-picture deal at Columbia, Van Peebles decided against it. Instead, he decided to produce his passion project, 1971’s Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song.

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    Synopsis

    An orphan raised in a brothel, Sweetback (Melvin Van Peebles) performs for their sex show due to his sexual prowess. During one of these shows, two white cops ask his boss Beetle (Simon Chuckster) to use Sweetback as a patsy. The cops arrest Sweetback as well as a Black Panther member named Mu-Mu (Hubert Scales) along the way. Later, the cops pull over to beat up Mu-Mu, so Sweetback uses his handcuffs to beat the cops to death. Now on the run, Sweetback tries looking for help only to be turned away for one reason or another. He tries Beetle with no luck, he asks an ex to no avail, and he’s turned down by a priest. Meanwhile, the Commissioner (John Dullaghan) is hunting down Sweetback while also trying to find where Mu-Mu has hidden. Will Sweetback manage to survive, or will The Man take him down for good?

     

    Review

    There’s no doubt that Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song has a powerful energy to it, particularly with its filmmaking and editing. There are so many jump cuts, slow-motion sequences, superimposition shots, and quick-cut edits that make the film feel chaotic. On one hand, this can leave many viewers bewildered and disoriented, but on the other, it fits the narrative. As Sweetback’s situation gets progressively worse, the editing gets more and more frenetic, giving it a very nightmarish quality. Some might see this style of filmmaking to be sloppy and haphazard, but this helps the film stand out. Cast-wise, aside from Melvin Van Peebles in the title role, no one, in particular, is very memorable or noteworthy. Also, as impressive as the frenetic filmmaking and editing are, it can make the film hard to follow. Still, his goal was to make a Black power film, and Van Peebles certainly succeeded.

    Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song is not only an important part of cinematic history but also of black history. While not the first film made by a black director, it was the first film independently produced by African Americans. It was also one of the first to have African Americans in the lead roles as opposed to supporting parts. This film’s success started a new genre in the 70s, blaxploitation, including Shaft, Super Fly, Blacula, Dolemite, and Foxy Brown. Also, this film helped inspire a new generation of black filmmakers, most notably Spike Lee and Robert Townsend. Aside from its significance in black and cinematic history, it also shows how impactful independent filmmaking can be. This should be shown in film schools, not just for its historical impact, but also to inspire aspiring filmmakers. Overall, Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song is a powerful film that tackles issues of corruption and racial bigotry.

     

    Buy Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song from DiabolikDVD: https://bit.ly/30johb5

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  • Tammy and the T-Rex (1994)

    Tammy and the T-Rex (1994)

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    It’s always fascinating to look back through a now-famous actor’s career and see where they got their start. Examples include Jennifer Aniston in Leprechaun, Johnny Depp in A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Leonardo DiCaprio in Critters 3. In this case, we’re looking at the debut of Denise Richards and the late Paul Walker, Tammy and the T-Rex. Released in 1994, the film was co-written and directed by Stewart Raffill (The Ice Pirates, Mac and Me). Interestingly, the concept came about because someone who owned theaters in South America who had access to an animatronic T-Rex. Produced on a budget of less than $1 million, the film was shot and released within a month. Originally an R-rated film, the distributor cut it for a PG-13 until Vinegar Syndrome released an uncut version in 2019. Now with the production history out of the way, let’s examine Tammy and the T-Rex.

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    Synopsis

    Tammy (Denise Richards) and Michael (Paul Walker) are madly in love despite protests from her ex-boyfriend Billy (George Pilgrim). Meanwhile, the nefarious Dr. Wachenstein (Terry Kiser) has acquired a robotic T-Rex that he plans to bring to life. That night, Michael sneaks into Tammy’s room when Billy and his gang chase him down to teach him a lesson. They leave him at the local wild animal park where he’s mauled by a lion and put in a coma. Tammy and her gay friend Byron (Theo Forsett) visit Michael in the hospital when Wachenstein arrives to take Michael away. Alongside assistant Helga (Ellen Dubin), Wachenstein takes Michael to his lab, extracts his brain, and implants it in the T-Rex. The dinosaur soon wakes up and goes on a rampage, all while trying to find Tammy and get her back. Soon, the police get involved while Wachenstein tries getting the dinosaur back.

     

    Review

    Tammy and the T-Rex is one of those movies where you’ll know if you’re interested just by the title. Most people will scoff at the title and not give it a chance, but certain audiences will be drawn in. While I will admit that this isn’t a cinematic masterpiece, it’s still an enjoyably ridiculous film that provides laughs aplenty. Part of what makes it especially funny is how most of the cast take the material so seriously. Kiser and Dubin play up their roles as over-the-top as possible, while Richards and Walker are playing it fairly straight. Even with their relative inexperience, Richards and Walker have surprisingly good chemistry with each other and feel like a couple. There are also fun appearances from character actors George ‘Buck’ Flower, Sean Whalen, Ken Carpenter, and John Franklin. Whether their performance is ridiculous or serious, every cast member gives it their all.

    Effects-wise, the T-Rex itself looks like something you’d find at an amusement park or a low-end science museum. The walking scenes are either the T-Rex being dragged along or shots that are someone wearing dinosaur shoes. Also, there are many scenes where the T-Rex’s arms are someone wearing dinosaur gloves, but they’re nowhere near attached. Going back to the T-Rex walking, there are some composite shots of the dinosaur moving that look hilariously awful. Of course, given the film’s low budget, many of these can be excused, and they add to the film’s charm. Probably the film’s biggest flaw is the inconsistent tone, going from high school romance to a mad scientist plot. Along with the inclusion of some extremely graphic gore scenes, it leaves you wondering who exactly this was made for. Overall, Tammy and the T-Rex is a disjointed mess that still has plenty to offer.

     

    Buy Tammy and the T-Rex from DiabolikDVD: https://bit.ly/2MhPDWR

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  • Ghoulies II (1987)

    Ghoulies II (1987)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Released in 1985, Ghoulies was a massive success for Empire Pictures, making over $35 million on a $5 million budget. The film was also a hit on home video, so naturally, a sequel was to follow soon after. Charles Band had been tossing around an idea with his father Albert Band about the creatures taking over a circus. Unfortunately, much of the original cast and crew, including writer/director Luca Bercovici, did not return for the sequel. Instead, veteran director Albert Band would be stepping up, having not directed since 1979’s She Came to the Valley. Dennis Paoli (Re-Animator, From Beyond) wrote the screenplay and John Carl Buechler’s effects shop would again design the creatures. While the original was filmed in California, this would be filmed at the Empire Studios in Rome, Italy. So two years later, Empire Pictures released 1987’s Ghoulies II.

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    Synopsis

    The local carnival funhouse, Satan’s Den, has been running into financial troubles with businessman Philip Hardin (J. Downing) threatening foreclosure. While Larry (Damon Martin) wants to keep it running, his magician turned alcoholic Uncle Ned (Royal Dano) has given up. Meanwhile, the mischievous Ghoulies have hitched a ride on Satan’s Den as it makes its way to the local carnival. Taking up residence in the funhouse, the Ghoulies start attacking, though the carnival-goers think they’re part of the act. Soon, Satan’s Den is making a profit to Hardin’s chagrin, so he starts hitting on Larry’s girlfriend Nicole (Kerry Remsen). Once several of the other carnival workers start disappearing, the guests realize the Ghoulies are real and panic erupts. Alongside fellow carnie Sir Nigel Penneyweight (Phil Fondacaro), it’s up to Larry and Nicole to stop the Ghoulies. Will our heroes succeed, or will the Ghoulies become the next carnival act?

     

    Review

    While Ghoulies was enjoyable enough, it was also kinda slow and didn’t have much going for it besides the puppets. Ghoulies II, on the other hand, is much more fun, has better acting, and the puppets look amazing. First off, moving the setting from a generic haunted house to a carnival helps this film stand out. Also, the acting is much improved over the previous film, with some highlights being Martin, Dano, Remsen, and Fondacaro. Dano has some fun moments as an old drunk, and Fondacaro once again shows underrated of an actor he is. Downing is pretty fun as the stock corporate tightwad that you love to hate, and his death scene is satisfying. Plus, for a film that had a lower budget than the original, the puppets honestly look way better. They’re much more detailed, have better articulation, and each has a more unique design.

    Alongside the puppet and creature effects from John Carl Buechler and crew, there’s some great stop-motion from David Allen. The production design from Empire and Full Moon regular Giovanni Natalucci is fantastic, creating an authentic living and breathing carnival. The cherry on top of the sundae is the inclusion of “Scream Until You Like It” from W.A.S.P. Not only is it an awesome song, but it was written specifically for the film and W.A.S.P. enjoyed the experience. As much fun as the film is, my only gripe is that the love triangle subplot is uninteresting and dull. Also, while there are some gruesome moments to be had, much of the violence seems like it was cut out. Even with those gripes aside, this is still an enjoyable monster movie and a step up from the previous installment. Overall, Ghoulies II is a fun B-movie best enjoyed with friends and alcohol.

     

    Buy Ghoulies II from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UzWGOq.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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