Review
In this highly entertaining film, a warrior protecting a young slave girl, who is in reality a princess, discovers himself fighting as a gladiator in the arenas in Rome.
Starring Gordon Scott, of Tarzan movie fame, this is a very satisfying and entertaining film. Not without a bit of romance, this is a film that will delight everyone. Though our hero is threatened with every kind of torture the Romans could drum up, he remains stalwart and dedicated to his cause.
Several twists and turns will leave you wondering how our heroine and her one true love will ever make it through the problems that are tossed their way. Truly classic gladiator fight scenes provide the impetus for the suspense while the romance provides a softer side to this hard edged gladiator film.
Maciste in King Solomons Mines
Review
Epic film fans won’t want to miss this film. Starring Reg Park, one of the brawniest men ever known to portray Hercules. The film involves the story of a rather mythic hero who has been summoned to the jungle city of Zimba in order to free a large number of people who have been enslaved by the evil queen Fazira. She needs them in order to dig gold from King Solomon’s legendary gold mines.
After Maciste actually arrives in the city he is overcome by the queen’s personal guard and subsequently bewitched through the use of an ankle bracelet that turns out to be magical. This forces him to lose his free will and he is relegated to servitude in the mines. Eventually he is freed from his state of bewitchment and is able to extract revenge on the queen as well as her co-conspirators.
Gladiator film fans will be delighted with this film as it is very probably one of the best examples of this genre in existence. Filled with breathtaking nature shots that were taken on location in South Africa, the film entertains as well as delights.
The Giants of Thessaly
Review
In perhaps one of the best costume piece film of its time, viewers will enjoy the retelling of the legend of Jason as he searches for the famous golden fleece in the uncharted sea. We revisit the wonderful, enduring myth of the fabled Golden Fleece that is said to be located in the Colchis (an ancient region on the Black Sea south of the Caucasus Mountains). Based on the poem by the Greek poet Apolonio of Rodas, this is a modern retelling that is thoroughly enjoyable.
King Jason sets the tone for the film by making an effort to placate the angry gods who have allowed Thessaly to be taken over by barbarian invaders and ravaged by natural disasters. He takes his Argonauts and sets out on a search for the fabled Golden Fleece. Meanwhile, back home his regent nephew turns out to be a scheming despot who only wants to take over the kingdom and the queen.
As Jason struggles to retrieve the magical charm that is housed in the distant land of Colchis and bring it back to the city of Iolcho. He and his crew must make it through a number of adventures, including a confrontation with a rather heinous witch on an island of women as well as several others in which they face almost certain death.
Against a backdrop of spectacular music contributed by Carlo Rustichelli, superbly handled costumes and sets and fantastic choreography this is a film that will be fun for the entire family.
Ali Baba and the Seven Saracens
Review
In this highly entertaining film, a rebel leader returns to his home city for a final show down with the evil king he has been battling. Unfortunately, he finds himself distracted by and even attracted to the king’s beautiful niece. This sets the scene for some very interesting plot twists and turns.
The entire film is extremely tense, leaving you guessing throughout the film. Even though there are many extremely tense moments throughout the film, the ending takes place quite satisfactorily. Character portrayals are also handled quite well, leading you to really experience the predicaments in which the characters find themselves.
The scenery, music, plot and characterization are all top-notch in this film that is sure to leave you guessing until the very end. All in all, this is a film you will love to pull out of your collection time and time again. A rare movie, that is worth seeing with plenty of exciting adventure, exciting dialogue and excellent acting complimenting a well crafted storyline.
Fighting Mad
Review
Leon Isaac Kennedy portrays Dough Russell, an American who, along with two of his Vietnam War buddies, has had the audacity to steal a shipment of gold in the Philippines. Unfortunately, his ‘buddies’ just slit his throat and threw him overboard. Little to their knowledge, however, he manages to wash ashore and lands on an island that has been inhabited by two Japanese soldiers that have been stranded there since the end of World War II. The soldiers nurse him back to health and along the way teach him martial arts as well as the art of the samurai.
His treacherous friends arrive back in the U.S. Once there, they use the stolen goods to make their way into Los Angeles and bully their way into mafia controlled territory. Money and murder aren’t the only things on the minds of these newly turned mobsters. One of the pals, Maghee, has set his sights on Russell’s wife Maria. Maria is portrayed by Jayne Kennedy, the real life wife of Leon at the time. Maria is a lounge singer. She soon discovers that she can’t get a job anywhere because Maghee has had her blackballed all over Los Angeles in a smarmy effort to have her come crawling to him.
Russell, meanwhile, has made his way back to the States by hitching a ride on a boat. (You didn't expect him to swim, did you?). With sword in hand he has begun searching for his wife and son. During his search he discovers that his treacherous friends have now become the top men in town. Bent on revenge, he begins to slaughter their cohorts and works his way up the food chain, so to speak. Lots of action ensues as he continues his quest to extract revenge and reclaim his wife and son.
With plenty of good location shots, including numerous Pacific island scenes along with a mix of street scenes in Mexico as well as Los Angeles, this is a film that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. If you like action, you won’t be disappointed in the least with this film. The main lead, Leon Isaac Kennedy, exhibits true star quality. Late 1970’s, early 1980’s style, he's always tough but gentle enough to always have a smile for the ladies. There is something for everyone in this film.
Ursus in the Land of Fire
Review
This is a film that is truly far superior to many of the films produced during this time period. If you’re a fan of Hercules films, you definitely will not want to miss this one. Ed Fury, with his handsome good looks and tremendous personal flair, portrays the main character as Hercules (Ursus). Although several scenes reveal our hero being tortured in horrific ways, we can rest assured that he will eventually overcome his captors (being the hero is never easy, just ask Officer McLane).
Several impressive and rather imaginative sets, which are actually indoor sets, provide the backdrop for exciting adventure scenes. They are definitely a cut above many of the scenes that are far too frequently the stock of many such films. In every regard, this film manages to rise above the average comparable film of this time period and genre; featuring numerous physical challenges and tests that prove Ursus’ ingenuity and fully demonstrate Fury’s physical strength.
With rich visuals, Fury’s status as a major star of this genre, strong credentials from co-writer Luciano Martino, beautiful photography and a truly interesting set design, this is a sure fire winner for the viewer.
The Two Gladiators
Review
This highly entertaining film is based on an interesting storyline in which an emperor, Commodus, who ruled Rome from 180-192 AD, used to occasionally fight as a gladiator. While in real life, Commodus’ twin brother actually died early on, in this theatric version, the twin survives and manages to grow up unbeknownst to the ruler.
After emperor Mark Aurel dies, his son Commodus succeeds him to the throne and quickly becomes a despot. A loyal senator, Tarrunio, sets out to locate the new emperor’s twin brother, whom he had once been ordered to kill but actually saved. The twin brother, Centurio Crassus, is located and follows Tarrunio to Rome to put forth an effort to overthrow his evil brother who has become a cruel tyrant.
With excellent fight scenes and supporting roles provided by some of the most well known actors of this genre, including Piero Lulli and Alberto Farnese as the sinister advisors of the evil emperor, this is a film that will not disappoint in the least.
Son of Samson
Review
Like many peplum films (see below), this movie features very interesting location photography and a different visual style that is quite exceptional. The film is set in 11th century BC Egypt, where that country is controlled at the time by the Persians who came to not only occupy the land, but also enslave the Egyptian people (after all, what good is all that land, if you don't have someone to cultivate it for you).
In a well intentioned effort, the pharaoh attempts to defend his people and is unfortunately killed. As a result, his rather evil and manipulative wife takes control and proceeds to try to sell out her own country. The pharoah’s son, Kenamun, immediately makes an effort to return home and try to straighten things out. However, he runs into Maciste (see Maciste in King Solomon's Mines), the Son of Samson (portrayed by Mark Forest), and this is where the plot really kicks into high gear and action.
As if this wasn’t enough of a plot to keep you held in your seat, there is also a subplot involving a rather mystical necklace. This necklace possesses the power to cause anyone who wears it to become a type of zombie that can be ordered around. There is also plenty of romance to go around as well. This film has it all, a unique setting, interesting visuals, the exciting presence of Mark Forest’s character and a very well honed female antagonist lead. All this combines to create a film that definitely goes above and beyond for the peplum genre.
(Reviewer aside - Since this word "peplum" is the best short description for certain types of films, I decided to help you with the best definition that I could find (what? you thought a space alien would know it's meaning). David Chapman, renowned historian of bodybuilding, defines "peplum film" as "any movie set in ancient times featuring a muscular, scantily-clad hero." The costuming of the hero varies; one shoulder may be exposed by his outfit, and he often goes shirtless. Names for the hero recur with numbing frequency -- Goliath, Ursus, Samson, Hercules, Maciste -- as do the predictable plots).
Hero of Rome
Review
An Italian peplum (see Son of Samson review) film of the highest regard, this is a film that you will want to add to your classic movie collection and watch time and time again. After their king, Tarquinius Superbus, is overthrown, Rome becomes a young republic. Tarquinius, portrayed by Massimo Serato, makes an attempt to regain his throne by utilizing the military assistance of the Etruscan king, Porsenna. The young Roman republic is meanwhile suffering from famine.
A crack soldier Murcius, portrayed by ex-Tarzan great Gordon Scott, manages to secure a supply of corn to provide sustenance for his fellow citizens and then decides to kill Porsenna. Unfortunately he kills the wrong man in the king’s camp and is captured. He goes on to prove his boldness; however, by voluntarily burning his own right hand in an open flame.
This sets the scene for much of the film which highlights Roman bravery and is interwoven with other heroic characters, including the Latin legend Cloelia, who becomes Murcius’ fiancée. This is a film that will leave you tottering on the edge of your seat in suspense. Cloelia eventually becomes a hostage in order to secure the peace with Porsenna but later manages to escape across the Tiber River (you have to know your geography).
With cinematography and a score that come from some of the most experienced artists of the peplum genre, well staged fight scenes, and impressive acting this is a grand epic film that you will remember for some time to come.
Duel of Champions
Review
As the title infers, this film involves the telling of a famous duel between two groups of three brothers. The duel is to decide the fate of a war that has been ongoing between their people for quite some time. One set of the brothers are Roman while the other set are Barbarians. Boasting a set of big names including co-director Terrence Young, American stars Alan Ladd and Robert Keith and well known French film star Jacques Sernas. In addition there is an entire host of noteworthy screenwriters. This is a film that will keep you highly entertained.
In the beginning of this timeless tale, Rome and Alba have become hopelessly locked into a war that has been both long and costly for both sides. As time has gone on, it would certainly appear that neither side can win. Ladd’s character is a commander in the Roman army who has fallen from grace after being captured in a battle but not killed. His brother has married the woman who was supposed to be his bride and has plans to rule Rome once the current ruler dies. As the war goes on, both opposing sides come to the realization that their constant warring is futile.
They elect to present a trio of brothers who will fight each other until one side has lost all three. At the culmination of the fight, the victor will have the ruling hand. Ladd is then requested to return to Rome and help win independence for his city.
A subplot reminiscent of the tragic Romeo and Juliet love story (I bet you thought I never heard of that) provides romance in addition to action and adventure in which Ladd’s character’s sister falls in love with one of the Barbarians as they temporarily kidnap her. Interestingly enough Ladd’s own daughter (not the future angel) appears in the film.
If you’re a fan of gladiator movies (and we have a few of those), you won’t be disappointed in the least with this well directed star laden film. We are proud to bring it to you.
The Giant of Marathon
Review
As a collaboration of two masters of the horror genre, this film is truly a classic. Steve Reeves stars as the hero while Sergio Fantoni gives an excellent performance as the villain. Daniela Rocca also puts in an outstanding performance. Impressive battle scenes are enough to delight any peplum (see Son of Samson review) genre fan while technical aspects of the film provide a backdrop for a well honed storyline. Special effects and camera work are particularly exemplary. (Reviewer aside - Did I use that word correctly?)
The story takes place when the city of Athens and all of Greece is invaded by sea and land by the Persian army. Reeves’ character is the hero of the Olympic games and as a result a hero to all of Greece. A couple of traitors attempt to convince him to partner with the Persians. Seduction and the wiles of wicked women are just some of the ploys used to try to lure him into their plan.
Mylene Demengeot becomes his love interest along the way while there is plenty of action on land and sea as well as a good wrestling match. Steve Reeves fans will be delighted with the pacing and action of this film. This is surely one that will become one of your all time favorites.
Thor and the Amazon Women
Review
In this riveting film, a society of Amazon women enslave other women and force them to participate in a sort of gladiator contest. In this bizarre kingdom, women dominate and enslave anyone who disagrees with their tyranny. While the women fight, the men are forced to act as Amazon warrior guides. Those who do not make the cut to act as guides are kept in caves in dehumanizing torture.
The Queen of the kingdom, Queen Nera, is on a search for the man who is destined to overthrow her. Of course, he will only have to manage to out battle 101 Amazon warriors in a contest of sheer strength. That man turns out to be Thor, portrayed by Joe Robinson, who is accompanied by his sidekick a slave by the name of Ubaratutu. Both men set much of the tone of the film, setting the standard for well muscled warriors.
The lovely Tamar, portrayed by Susie Anderson, is the daughter of the man who was once the rightful ruler of the kingdom. Like many others he was overrun and eventually killed by the queen.
Now, Tamar is seeking to restore the throne and hand it over to her brother. Although Tamar and her brother are captured for awhile, they are rescued by Thor and Ubaratutu. Before long Ubaratutu is captured and subsequently seduced by the evil queen, who has a nasty habit of using her men as temporary husbands before disposing of them in some very nasty fashions. The earth saying, "All's well that ends well" might apply here.
Fury of Hercules
Review
This is an excellent rendition of the classic Hercules films. Very solid and completely accurate period representation.
In this version, Hercules (Brad Harris) is visiting the daughter of an old friend. In a difficult situation he is forced to choose between two different sides in a guerilla rebellion. It would seem that the ruler faces a revolt from rebels who are determined to win their freedom. This film departs from many traditional Hercules films, which often make strong use of stock characters and standard plot devices.
Director Gianfranco Parolini used masterful attention to detail in this film. This serves to set it apart nicely from the usual Hercules films. Extremely fast paced action carries the plot forward rather quickly, much like good action films that leave you panting on the edge of your seat. Brad Harris portrays the role of Hercules with distinction.
The Battle of Midway
Review
This is a highly recommended film that won an Academy Award. This is a short documentary, not the mega-star Hollywood blockbuster with Charleton Heston, Henry Fonda and others. This film was shot by a crew of Navy and civilian cameramen, including John Ford. This is a film that should not be missed. While much of this was obviously shot live during the war, there is actually a storyline that focuses somewhat on the women who were at home waiting.
Many of the scenes have historic value and are certainly enlightening in context. Images are shot in color and are extremely exciting; especially considering the fact that they were shot in the heat of the battle.
Whether you are a history buff or you are simply interested in seeing live footage of one of the most famous battles of the 20th century, this is a film that will certainly entertain as well as enlighten.
Escape From Sobibor
Review
Truly an edge of your seat film. In fact, you may even find you will not be able to take your eyes off the screen. The ending is truly surprising and will leave you both shattered and awed. Excellent acting overall.
The story takes place in the Sobibor death camp in Poland during your Second World War. It is here that the Jews are sent to be killed. More than 600 Jews and Russian POWs work in the camp. The film demonstrates the hardships endured by the Jews during this time period and the brutality that was often meted out by the German SS officers.
Alan Arkin portrays a Jew working in the camp who is also a leader with the prisoners. Rutger Hauer is also a leader and before long Hauer and Arkin begin to work together in order to find a way to escape. In the beginning they plan for only a dozen men to escape but eventually decide they must try to help the entire camp escape.
Overall, the film is fraught with suspense and is actually based on a true story that occurred at Sobibor. That true story turned out to be the biggest camp escape throughout the entire war. In many ways the movie is much like other Holocaust films, revealing some of the most horrifying details of the war and the executions that occurred in these death camps.
Mutiny
Review
Captain James Marshall finds himself commissioned to run the British blockade early in the War of 1812. His mission is to bring back an unofficial war loan from France. He recruits Ben Waldridge to act as first mate. Waldridge, a former British Navy captain, brings along his former gun crew and it doesn't take long for trouble to begin as the crew begins to plot mutiny.
The gold in repayment of the loan arrives and along with it Leslie, Waldridge's former sweetheart. To complicate matters even more Leslie has her own designs on the gold. Viewers find themselves wondering which side Waldridge is really on in this adventurous film.
With an interesting period setting and excellent performers this film is a certain entertainer. Excellent action sequences keep the film moving along at an interesting pace while the shipboard atmosphere lends credence to the adventure setting. Historical elements used to excellent advantage are certain to delight history buffs who love a good high seas action adventure film.
The lead-up to the finale will take you swiftly by surprise, culminating in a three way showdown filled with action and suspense. With Angela Lansbury and Gene Evans appearing, this film is one you will want to see again and again.
The Uranium Conspiracy
Review
Fabio Testi stars as a charming secret agent in this wonderful film. Excellent secondary characters provide a well rounded film.
The plot of the film itself is quite interesting and ahead of its time. Although viewers in the 1970s might not have been aware of the danger, this film explores in a realistic manner the idea of terrorists attempting to obtain nuclear weapons. Excellent photography of the canals in Venice alone are worth seeing this movie. As the story unfolds you will likely find much more to love about this film. The acting is high on my scale and the musical score woven throughout the film is interesting and different from many similar films.
Overall, this is an excellent film with a wonderfully interesting plot and excellent characterization. If you are looking for a film that takes a step away from the host of genre films that were produced during this period, this film is definitely it.
My Boys are Good Boys
Review
If you are looking for an exciting and wonderful film with plenty of surprises, this is definitely one for the books. There are so many twists and turns in this surprising movie that you most certainly will be floating on the edge of your seat wondering what is to come next. What appears to be a seemingly easy escape in the beginning leads to a group of young men robbing an armored truck.
The film is well laced with plenty of heart-pounding car crashes, just to keep things interesting. Fast paced action and plenty of drama combine to create a film that is truly wonderful from beginning to end.
Excellent characterization is provided by the entire cast. David Doyle in particular stands out in his portrayal of Harry Klinger. Kerry Lynn and Robert Cokjlat also provide memorable portrayals as well. This is a film that will certainly delight all movie viewers, especially those who like a good action film with plenty of heart.
Bloody Friday
Review
This truly frightening thriller directed by Rolf Olsen explores the true story of one of the most brutal bank robberies in history. It occurred in August of 1971 in a branch bank office in Munich. Heinz Klett has made plans to hold up the Finanzbank along with his pregnant girlfriend and her somewhat reluctant brother. It is their plan to hold up the bank and then make their way to Australia with their ill gotten gains. Unfortunately, the hold-up quickly deviates from their plans and turns into a hostage situation with plenty of bloodshed.
Viewers should be aware that this film is not for those who are hesitant about viewing bloodshed. Based on an actual event, the violence of that event is explored in a very real and dramatic manner. If you can handle the violence of the film, it is an excellent movie that explores what happens when things go awry. A great cast, well written storyline and dramatic photography provide a movie that is certainly
memorable.
Manhunt
Review
After a shipment of heroin disappears between New York and Italy, a pimp in Milan discovers he has been
framed for the theft of the drugs. Two hit men are sent from New York in order to find him. At the same time, the thugs who really stole the drugs would like to find him before the hit men from New York do in order to make sure no one finds out he’s the wrong guy.
In the course of the search, the pimp's wife and daughter are murdered and he swears he will extract revenge on anyone who had anything to do with the murders.
Overall, a well paced and witty film with plenty of action to keep any adventure and action film fan happy. While the potential was certainly there for this type of film to be overdone, the directors and cast handled this film with precision and the result is an excellent movie. There is just enough grittiness to add reality to the film while editing is handled with perfection. Unlike many films of this time period, there are no wasted scenes and every scene in the film is important to the overall storyline.
The Wild Women of Wongo
Review
This wonderful and classic film takes place on the tropical island of Wongo. Here, a tribe of incredibly beautiful women have discovered that a tribe of very handsome men inhabit the other side of their island. (Reviewer aside - Just how and where did all these beautiful people come from, that's what I would like to know.) And not only that, but, there is also a group of evil ape men living on the island.
The ape men have planned a raid on the tribe of women in order to obtain wives. The two beautiful tribes must unite in order to foil the plans of the evil ape men.
The scenery in this film is breathtaking. Much of the scenery includes fabulous shots of Coral Gardens and Silver Springs in Florida. A solid plot adds to the value of this film while great acting and direction create a film that is well-balanced and entertaining in every aspect. If you are looking for a good film to enjoy, this one is definitely worth your consideration.
Hercules and teh Captive Women
Review
Fan of Hercules movies? This one is delightful. This film is definitely not an average low-budget sword and sandal film, which were common in the time period. The film was shot using high quality Technirama film and the result is quite remarkable. A huge cast, expansive, colorful sets and rousing action create a film that is nothing short of stunning.
The cast in the film is absolutely perfect for the plot. Steve Reeves makes the perfect Hercules while Fay Spain is a very memorable Evil Queen. Iseme is portrayed by the very beautiful Laura Efrikian. The film begins with Hercules sailing with a friend. The friend manages to go overboard and he eventually finds himself in Atlantis where the Evil Queen gives him a potion that is intended to make him fall in love with her.
Of course, the plot is classic in its approach where the hero faces one problem after another in his attempt to save the dazzling damsel (Reviewer aside - too bad about the friend). One of the best scenes in the film occurs when Hercules saves the daughter of Queen Antinea, Iseme. A very well produced film with fabulous visual effects.
Hercules Unchained
Review
While he is en route to Thebes, Hercules takes a drink from a spring that turns out to be magical and as a result he loses his memory. He then finds himself in the pleasurable gardens of Queen Ompahale, where
Ulysses attempts to help him regain his memory. Meanwhile, political tensions rise in Thebes, where Hercules was supposed to be handling a delicate and important diplomatic mission.
This film is the sequel to “Hercules” which was a tremendous hit. In this version Sylva Koscina plays the wife of Hercules and she is absolutely breathtaking. Sylvia Lopez portrays the role of Queen Omphale and is equally devastating in her beauty. (Webmaster aside - Unfortunately, Lopez suffered from leukemia during the making of this film and she died shortly thereafter. As a result, this film is probably the most well known of her short and tragic film career.)
The film itself picks up right where the first film left off. Hercules and his new bride are traveling to Thebes where Hercules is intended to serve as a peacemaker. Before he can do that, he is taken prisoner by the evil Queen. As a result of that drink from the magic spring he doesn’t know who he really is and he is completely at the evil Queen's mercy. Meanwhile, his new bride is facing dangers of her own.
Reviews - Comedy films
Fiesta
Review
After being gone from Mexico City for some time, Cholita (portrayed by Ann Ayars) is coming home to resume her duties as the head manager of a rancho. Everyone expects her to marry her childhood sweetheart, Jose (portrayed by George Negrete). These expectations are dashed when she arrives with a new fiancée, Fernando (portrayed by George Givot.) Jose as well as Cholita’s uncle are more than a little upset over this turn of events since Jose is not Mexican as well as the fact that he is somewhat of a city slicker.
Webmaster note - I do believe my reviewer slept through this movie as his review seems to have been lifted from that of Les Adams at IMDB
McClintock
Review
For those who are big John Wayne fans, you won’t want to miss this one. This film marks Wayne’s foray back into production after The Alamo. The "Duke" plays George Washington McLintock, who has worked to build an empire out in the wilderness while fighting off Indians and at the same time working to earn their respect. He has been a timber baron, miner and cattle king and has now had a town named after him, which he pretty much rules. He helps those who need it and isn’t afraid to take his fists to those who don’t measure up to his own standard of conduct. Since his wife (played by Maureen O’Hara) left him two years previously because she suspected he was cheating on her, he has been living the single life on his ranch. McLintock hires a cook to work on his ranch. She happens to be a beautiful widow.
He also welcomes her two children onto his ranch at the same time. This leads to a hilarious and adventuresome round of action involving an Indian attack, brawls and gunfire as well as the return of the long absent Mrs. McLintock, claiming she wants a divorce and custody of her daughter Becky. As his wife continues to demand a divorce, the tough McLintock finds he has no choice but to duke it out with her. Meanwhile, their daughter is falling in love with the new housekeeper’s son. This wildly funny comedy is loosely based as a Western adaptation of “The Taming of the Shrew.”
As some of John Wayne’s movies tend to go, this film tends to lean toward the side of being too overtly political, making a few digs at big government (as if it didn't deserve them); including a swipe at Senator Hubert H. Humprhey, who at the time, was a liberal symbol of government. The film could certainly have done with less musical numbers and the script could have used a few touch ups but it is amusing enough in it’s own right.
Jesse James Meets Frankenstein's Daughter
Review
We begin this film finding Jesse James hiding away in Frankenstein’s daughter’s castle. Earlier his partner had been shot during a stagecoach robbery and he is no doubt on the lamb now. It turns out that all the villagers in the town have left and the Frankensteins are about the only family left in town. All of the other young people of the town seem to have died from rather questionable circumstances.
After Hank, James’ partner, was shot during the robbery, they meet up with Juanita who takes them to the Frankenstein house for medical treatment. Maria is running very low on artificial brains and doesn’t have anyway to make anymore since the secret formula hasn’t been known since Frankenstein himself died. So, Maria decides to experiment on Hank and turns him into a zombie.
Meanwhile Juanita can’t decide who she likes more, Hank or Jesse. To get Jesse out of the way Maria sends him out into an ambush so she can have Hank to herself for the experiments. In the end the local marshal and Jesse, an unlikely combination if there ever was one, team up to try and save Hank.
While the storyline is definitely interesting, you’ll also find the commentary quite interesting as well. You’ll learn a lot of interesting facts about the director as well as the actors in the film and the movie itself from the commentary.
Royal Wedding
Review
If you’re a Fred Astaire fan you’ll absolutely love this film. We travel along with a brother and sister dance team, Tom and Ellen Bowen. After their show closes in New York, their agent books them for a gig in London at exactly the same time as the Royal Wedding. During their travel to London by cruise ship, Ellen (played by Jane Powell) meets Lord John Brindale and becomes involved with him. As a result, she ends up missing a rehearsal. Meanwhile her brother Tom (played by Astaire) puts on a scene where he is dancing with some gym equipment and a hat rack.
After they actually arrive, auditions are held and it is during this time that Tom meets a woman named Sara. As time progresses both siblings have some quandaries over their romantic interests. There are plenty of dance scenes featuring the dapper and skilled Astaire, including a scene where he dances on the ceiling and the walls of his hotel room.
Like most films of this genre, it has a happy ending and leaves everyone feeling happy and satisfied. Not only are the dance numbers fabulous, but there is also plenty of light comedy to keep you amused all the way throughout the film. In addition, the musical score is one that you will treasure for a long time, as with most classic movies. A few of the songs in the film include “Ev’ry Night at Seven,” “Sunday Jumps,” “Open Your Eyes,” “The Happiest Day of My Life” and “How Could you Believe Me When I Said I Love You When you Know I’ve Been a Liar All My Life.”
Killer Diller
Review
(Webmaster note - My poor little reviewer was flat on his back from having had to watch another of this months movies called "Naked Massacre". So we called on our friends at IMDB for their review by Tom Willett (yonhope from Central Midwest, USA for his expert review.)
"Hi, Everyone, The best part of this is the dance routine, make that two dance routines by The Clark Brothers. They are gorgeous to watch and they move like boneless puppets on rubber strings. How can they keep smiling when they have to be pooped?
Nat Cole is the biggest name here. This was about two years before he became a huge name in the world of show business when he recorded "Mona Lisa." He had a lot of fame already when he appeared here from earlier, but lesser hits like "Sweet Lorraine" and more notably, "The Christmas Song," which eventually would become his biggest seller. He was only 17 years from the end of his career. He would die in 1965.
The songs he sings here are good from a musicianship standpoint, but they suck for the listener. If he had done "Nature Boy" or "Ramblin' Rose" or "Pretend" this movie would have been a real winner. I guess they weren't written yet.
Some of the other musical numbers and comedy entries are just barely acceptable, including "Moms" Mabley, who would become a wonderful comedy actress and act in her later years. It is hard to believe she was past 50 when this was made. Her style was taking shape, but her writing was not there yet.
The twosome that does an impression of The Ink Spots is enjoyable and I would like to have seen them with some great material. Perhaps a script would have helped.
The basic story is OK and it keeps one amused with a Keystone Kops type troupe, but the sets are not quite as grandiose as one might see in Ben Hur or Pee Wee's Big Adventure.
There is a lot to like here. It is wonderful some early footage like this exists to show what vaudeville was and where some of the big names came from.
Nat was more enjoyable in Cat Ballou. I once had the pleasure of watching him perform in person at NBC TV in Hollywood for his TV show. He was great with a live audience. He stayed for about an hour after the show was over to perform for the audience in the theater."
The Werewolf of Washington
Review
In this unique and laugh out loud funny film, a reporter who has had an affair with the daughter of the President is sent to Hungary where he is bittern by a werewolf. He is then transferred back to Washington and obtains a job as a press assistant to the President. Very soon afterward bodies begin to turn up in Washington D.C. The people who have been killed were all murdered in strikingly animal like attacks.
There are numerous memorable moments scattered throughout this film including a scene involving a phone booth which you are sure to remember long after the film is finished. This is probably one of the most original and unique werewolf films ever produced. Leading actors Dean Stockwell and Biff McGuire perform their roles quite well.
Overall, the film involves quite a bit of political satire, much of which appears to be aimed at the Nixon administration. When the star of the film arrives back in the U.S., the president is angry at the way in which the media has reported in a negative fashion on the current state of affairs. He feels the youth of the nation have begun to protest too much as a result. His solution is to institute martial law. A rare satirical comedy that is a must for your movie collection.
The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Review
This is a film that will be an immediate favorite. You will want to add this movie to your collection and watch it time and time again. Based on the classic children's tale in which the small town of Hamelin is one day overrun with rats. Literally thousands of rats scamper around and manage to inflict terror on the townspeople.
A rather mysterious stranger appears in the midst of these problems, the Pied Piper. He promises to rid the town of their unwelcome rodents but the price is quite high. Weary of dealing with the rats, the people agree. When it comes time to pay the piper the mayor refuses to live up to his side of the bargain.
Lively song and dance are interspersed with a lesson that the entire family will certainly enjoy. Whether you are 8 or 80, this is a film you will enjoy seeing many times over.
Jack and the Bean Stalk
Review
One of the most original and funny movies for children ever produced. Surprisingly catchy tunes that you will remember for a long time after the final credits roll. Fantastic acting combined with excellent music create a very memorable film. Effective slapstick comedy will keep you laughing until the very end.
Plot is based on the classic fairytale with a twist on the beginning as a young boy is read a bedtime story and the fairy tale eventually comes to life in full color. In the fairy tale all of the peasants are going hungry because the giant is stealing everything from them. As a result, Jack's mother must sell their cow in order to buy food. Unfortunately, Jack sells the cow not for money but instead for magic beans. After the boy plants the beans they begin to mysteriously grow up toward the sky. As you all know, Jack climbs the beanstalk to the giant's castle and the adventure begins.
All of the components from the original fairy tale are all present including the hen that lays the golden eggs.
This is a classically funny film that will amuse kids of all ages.
The Inspector General
Review
After an illiterate stooge who takes part in a traveling medicine show makes his way into a strange town he is arrested on vagrancy charges. Unfortunately, the rather corrupt officials in town have mistaken him for the inspector general, believing the inspector is traveling in disguise. Afraid that he will find out they have been pocketing the tax money, they try to kill him several times but bungle the effort each time.
This sets the stage for a good bit of zaniness with Danny Kayes' talents on display throughout the entire film. This film is a perfect example of Kaye's tremendous acting ability. Throughout the late 1940s he was known as one of the best movie comedians in the business.
The film was based on a 19th century play written by Nicolai Gogol. Overall, this is an excellent film, which lends itself well to relaxing and enjoying a good comedic satire.
Reviews - Drama films
A Star is Born
Review
As old classic Hollywood movies go, this is probably one of the best. Enter Esther Blodgett (Janet Gaynor) who has grown up on a farm but like many young girls, dreams of becoming a Hollywood starlet. She makes her way to Hollywood and one of her first stops when she finally arrives in Tinseltown is Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. There she makes a point to find the prints of her favorite cinema star, Norman Maine; who is portrayed by Fredric March.
She manages to get herself a job working as a waitress at a party in Tinseltown and there is noticed by none other than her idol. Maine, who is an alcoholic, immediately turns on the charm. He talks the studio head of production into giving her a screen test and before long Esther finds herself caught up in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. She and Maine are paired together in leading roles and Esther practically becomes an overnight success.
She and Maine, who has become quite smitten with her, marry rather quickly and Esther finds herself a
huge success. Her identity is transformed and she takes on the persona of Vicki Lester, becoming a huge box office success. As she becomes more famous; however, her alcoholic husband grows less popular and the now famous starlet discovers that not all that glitters is gold.
Just about everything in this movie is great; including the acting, direction and writing. The music is also really great. At a time during which a lot of movies were ground out of the Hollywood production machine, this one is one of the best. You don’t even feel like you’re really watching an old ‘classic’ movie because the dialogue and writing are so timeless. Several of the topics are related to issues that we still deal with today including success and failure as well as alcoholism its effects.
You feel as though you really get to know the characters, who really come to life. The musical score is excellent and even if the plot and acting of this film weren’t so great, it would be worth it to watch the movie just to hear the music.
A Tattered Web
Review
This is a high tension drama film that is filled with plenty of conflict from beginning to end. A police detective (portrayed by Lloyd Bridges) discovers that his son-in-law has been cheating on his daughter. Bridges, whose character has until this point been a model police officer, becomes incensed with rage and acts out of emotion, killing the mistress of his son-in-law. Realizing that his life is about to spin out of control, if his crime is discovered, he attempts to pin the crime on a wino, played by Broderick Crawford.
For the most part, this film is seen from the perspective of the murderer. While you don’t necessarily
like what he does in the film (by killing the mistress) you can’t help but feel empathy for him and even understand why he committed the crime.
This film was originally a "made for television movie" and has all the high tension and drama that you would expect of such a film. If you like nail biting tension and conflicts that really make you stop and think about what you would do when presented with a similar situation, this is a great movie to check out.
Black Tights
Review
If you’re a big fan of ballet, you will absolutely love this film. The film is quite French
and features many scenes of Paris. Four different ballets are performed throughout the film and they are linked together by a narrator. The ballets are performed by Les Ballets de Champs Elysees and are breathtakingly beautiful. The gorgeous Technicolor of the filmography only adds to the beauty of this film.
The shots of the costumes alone are worth watching this film. They were designed by Christian Dior and
Yves Saint-Laurent.
The film is narrated by Maurice Chevalier. The four dance routines featured in the film are Cyrano de
Bergerac, A Merry Mourning, The Diamond Crunchers and Carmen.
A lady mobster is the star of The Diamond Cruncher dance number. Eventually she gives up her life of
crime all for the love of a man who isn’t a criminal. In Cyrano de Bergerac, Roland Petit, who also
choreographed the film, portrays Cyrano. The music in this film is quite interesting, as it was composed by the same person who composed the music for the Twilight Zone. The story of Carmen doesn’t change much, except that in this rendition you get to see it danced rather than sung. A Merry Mourning is the story of a young woman who finds herself in the midst of a romantic triangle that proves to be rather deadly.
A lot of action and beautiful dancing packed into a movie that runs just over two hours. If you like
ballet and anything French, this should be a must see movie on your list.
Day of the Wolves
Review
This time tested story serves up a criminal mastermind who has put together a team of
thieves. These guys have never met one another and it doesn’t look like they’ll ever really know one
another either because the head of the group simply assigns them numbers as their new names. In the
beginning the whole gig is pretty much a mystery to the team of seven. It isn’t explained exactly what
their role in the heist will be but they are told how much money they can expect to make at the end.
Together they all board a private jet to a farm on a rather isolated stretch of land. This is to
become their training ground where they prepare for the heist. All the while the team of seven are
growing beards in order to help disguise their appearance when the big day finally arrives.
Interestingly enough there is also a subplot in the storyline involving the chief of police,
named Pete Anderson. He has been forced by the city council to retire, apparently because he’s been
stepping on some toes. As luck would have it, the new chief of police is set to take over on the very
day that the heist is set to be pulled off. Set in a rather small town, there is plenty of tension;
especially when the team of seven come in and take the cops prisoners, locking them up.
Refusing to allow his town to be taken by such criminals, even though he has just officially
retired, former chief of police Pete Anderson goes on somewhat of a rampage in order to save his town.
Set in the desert, the cinematography is fairly good in this film as is the musical score. The ending
is crafted pretty creatively, making you realize what all the mystery was about in the first place.
Definitely worth a watch.
Catholics
Review
While this film would be appreciated by most Catholics, it also has value even if you don’t happen to be Catholic. Individuals growing up during the Baby Boomer generation, in particular, will find merit in this film and be able to relate to the story line.
A priest who is sent to Rome to an Irish monastery is portrayed by a very young Martin Sheen. The purpose of his assignment is to stop the monks in the monastery from celebrating the Mass in Latin. The hierarchy of the Vatican has been attempting to modernize the Mass around the world and have it celebrated in the vernacular and to promote the idea that the Transubstantiation of the wine and bread is actually symbolic and not real.
The problem is that the priests in the monastery have become very accustomed to celebrating the Mass in a traditional sense. Due to the fact that the ceremony has been televised there are even more problems. The abbot of the monastery, portrayed by Trevor Howard, realizes he must find a way to obey the dictate given to him while at the same time preventing all out rebellion among his monks.
All of the performances in the film are excellent. While it may be a bit difficult for someone who was not born a Catholic prior to 1960 to fully comprehend exactly the dilemma of this film, it still comes across quite well. The conflict between faith and conscience and the vow of obedience is clearly
demonstrated.
Legend of Big Foot
Review
If you’re a Big Foot legend fan you will absolutely love this movie. Actually, in all honesty, it’s not
really a movie but more of a documentary, making it even more likeable for those who are curious about the legend of Big Foot and whether the subject of the legend actually exists. In the documentary you will be presented with some footage of Big Foot that you very well may not have seen previously. There have certainly been a lot of films made about the legend of Big Foot but many of them take a science
fiction/horror sort of slant.
This film is decidedly different in that it attempts to approach the legend of Big Foot from more of a
scientific angle. The documentary is directed by Harry Winer, who does a good job. There is also narration that helps to really add value.
Even though the documentary was produced during the 1970’s it was done so well that you won’t find yourself wanting to flip it off or feel that you’re watching something that has been overdone. Of course, whether you decide Big Foot is real or not is an entirely personal decision and will be left up to you. This documentary will certainly help you to make an educated decision on the matter. You will come away feeling as though you know a bit more about this legend that has captivated North Americans and others from around the world as well for numerous years.
Anatomy of an Illness
Review
Starring Ed Asner, this is a movie that is an absolute must see. Asner portrays a Saturday
Review Editor, Norman Cousins (who just happens to be the author of the book on which this movie is based). Cousins has been diagnosed with a degenerative spinal illness. The
film, which was originally a "made for TV movie," first aired in 1984; however, the story itself is
set in 1964. Cousins, although naturally upset at the prognosis refuses to go down without a fight.
Unable to accept the prognosis he has been given, to remain a vegetable the rest of his life, he
begins to battle his illness using whatever weapons he has available to him. This includes the
support of his wife, his own sense of humanity and the belief that he will make it through this no
matter what.
This touching film covers the spiritual battle that anyone who finds themselves in such a
situation would endure. While it does an excellent job of portraying the emotions of a patient in
an extremely difficult situation, there are also plenty of humorous moments.
As noted earlier, the film was based on a book written by Norman Cousins himself and the experiences he dealt with. Whether you’re simply looking for a really good movie, know someone who is dealing with a difficult prognosis or you are facing one yourself, this is a must see film. You will come away feeling uplifted and hopeful while at the same time understanding the Anatomy of an Illness much better.
The Devil and Leroy Bassett
Review
This film is sort of a modern day take on the traditional western. It begins with a crook breaking out of jail, killing the deputy and escaping on a road trip with his two brothers. As it turns out the brothers are somewhat murderous. What ensues will leave you clutching the edge of your seat waiting for the thrilling end.
This is the type of movie where you find yourself rooting for the bad guys whether you
really want to or not. There are some really good adventure/action scenes as they are on the road.
Also some really good comic relief scenes.
You won’t want to miss this film. It will definitely be one you will want to see time and time again. If you like a twist on a classic favorite, you will love this film. It combines
everything you love about westerns while adding in a few new modern twists. You won’t forget this
film.
The Big Fight
Review
While many such films focus only on the fight scenes and forget about the plot, this is
definitely not the case with this film. The plot as well as the fight scenes are excellent. In
addition, the dubbing in the film was handled extremely well; unlike many similar films.
The fight scenes are quite impressive and there are a lot of them. The choreography in
those scenes is simply amazing. There are a wide variety of weapons used including several
different Chinese and Japanese swords, bayonets, knives, rifles and several other items as well.
There are also several different types of martial arts demonstrated in the fight scenes such as
karate, judo and even some sumo.
By the end of the film you feel as though you really know the characters. Sadly, many
other such films do not lend a lot of time toward character development but that is not the case
with this film. There isn’t a lot of comic relief, but then it’s not really needed.
The film focuses on a manicurist by the name of Shirley. Shirley is in love
with a prizefighter, Tiger. Trouble arrives when Shirley’s younger brother gets in debt with a
gangster, Chuck. Steve, Tiger’s manager agrees to help bail out the brother but only if Shirley
agrees to sabotage her boyfriend’s chances at winning an upcoming championship.
With superb choreography, acting and character development this is one film you won’t soon forget. It will become a must see you will want to add to your movie collection and watch again and again.
Combat America
Review
Love war films? You must see this one. Recounting the experiences of the 351st Bombardment Group of the Army Air Forces during WWII in England, this documentary is a must-see! The only thing that makes this film any better is the appearance of the lovable Clark Gable in one of his finest performances. Gable actually produced, wrote, directed and narrated this film while he was on assignment with the 8th Air Force.
There is a ton of color combat footage, a rarity indeed. Unlike many films which are somewhat reluctant to show exactly what the cost of war can be, this film reveals the reality. Not for the faint of heart, Combat America, provides modern viewers with true insight to what it was like to live and fight during those difficult times.
Several bombing missions over Hitler ruled Germany are followed throughout this fabulous film. You will see up close and personal footage of the B-17s as they leave U.S. air space and eventually travel to the dangerous skies over Germany.
Find out what it was like to be on the front line as well as on an Air Force base in the U.K. during WWII. You won’t forget this film anytime soon. Gable clearly leads the viewers through the truth of the war and provides a rare view into the courage of the men during this time.
Marines at Tarawa Return to Guam
Review
History buffs and war movie fans will not want to miss this riveting
documentary. It depicts the rather harrowing battle that occurred between the U.S.
Marines and the Japanese as they fought for control of the Pacific island of
Tarawa.
The Battle for Tarawa proved to be a pivotal point in the Pacific Theatre,
occurring near the end of 1943. Located southeast of the Japanese Empire,
the Gilbert Islands served as outposts and the island of Tarawa itself had been
turned into a very heavily fortified base. In fact, it was probably the most
fortified base in the Pacific at the time.
On November 20, 1943 the 2nd Marine Division began their move toward invading the beaches. The fighting that ensued was quite severe and the Marines suffered heavy casualties. More than 1,000 were killed in the battle that followed. With almost 5,000 Japanese soldiers defending the base, it was an intense, heated battle. When it finally ended on November 23rd almost the entire Japanese defensive line had been wiped out. Only 17 Japanese defenders remained alive.
This film follows the horrific events that occurred during that three day time
period, detailing the efforts of the 2nd Marine Division as they fought to take
control of the island. Of the more than 1,000 men who were killed in the battle, two
of them were Marine photographers working on this very documentary.
In 1945, the documentary won an Oscar for Best Documentary.
Report from the Aleutians
Review
If you are a big WWII buff you won’t want to miss this documentary. While many
people are not aware of it, the Aleutian Islands proved to be an important part of the war. This documentary depicts the mission of U.S. forces on one of these islands as they station and prepare to attack another island, Kiska, which was occupied by the Japanese.
The Aleutian Islands, comprised of about 120 small islands, stretch from the tip of Alaska to just under 100 miles from Russia. On the easternmost edge lies, the
island of Unimak, while Unalaska is located on the southwest. Kiska, occupied by
Japanese forces, is located about 600 miles west of Unalaska.
It is still unknown exactly what the objectives were of the Japanese attacks on
the Aleutian Islands when they occurred in 1942. It was possibly a diversion in support of their Midway efforts. It has also been speculated that the Japanese might have hoped to conquer the islands in order to gain access to Canada and thereby the northwestern U.S. It is possible that these were considered to be good targets by the Japanese military as they were thought to be poorly defended. The Japanese may have also intended to use their position merely as observation posts.
Either way, the Allied Forces quickly realized that the Japanese occupation in
the Aleutian Islands was a threat to both America’s and Canada’s security. With Japan
maintaining flanking positions in the Aleutians it would also be even more difficult
for the Allied Forces to seize the offensive in the Central Pacific. The impact of the fact that Japanese troops were technically occupying American soil could not be
underestimated either. Not only was it beneficial to the morale of the Japanese
troops but it would be disastrous to that of the Americans, if word of it were to get
out.
This documentary depicts the mission of the U.S. forces as they attempt to oust
the Japanese, including footage of the U.S. bombers actually attacking the Japanese
occupied island of Kiska.
Mr. Imperium
Review
Do you love drama? If so you will be sure to love this film. Here we have a beautiful singer and dancer who has become an actress matched with a crown prince playboy monarch who become involved in a clandestine romance. Unfortunately, their romance is interfered with by their changing circumstances.
This is a lighthearted romantic, musical comedy with great musical moments. Unlike many romantic comedies this film is a classic that will surely be one you will love to see again and again. Starring Lana Turner and Ezio Pinza, who have excellent chemistry together, this is a film filled with romance and beautiful music. Great costumes, sets and backgrounds add to the overall atmosphere of this film. Other notables in the film include appearances by Debbie Reynolds and Sir Cedric Hardwicke.
With great stars, wonderful acting, beautiful scenery and a very romantic storyline this is a film you definitely will not want to miss.
Project Kill
Review
This is an excellent film you will be sure to enjoy again and again. John Trevor (Leslie Nielsen) has escaped from a military base where he commanded a special project: Project Kill.
This project is a mind control experiment that utilizes drugs to create assassins and bodyguards for the United States. Eventually Trevor makes his way to the Philippines and falls in love with Lee Su. Unfortunately he is feeling the withdrawal pains of the mind control drugs and turns out to be quite dangerous to himself as well as anyone who is around him. His former second in command, agent Frank Lassiter, has since been ordered to find him before the withdrawal effects result in him becoming too violent as well as before he gives out too much information about the program.
An Asian mobster, Alok Lee, is also after Trevor; however, hoping to gain control of the secrets of Project Kill. As the withdrawal symptoms become worse, Trevor is running out of time and Lassiter, the police in the Philippines and the mobsters are all closing in on him. Will he be able to escape once again? Will he sell out the secrets of the program?
Numerous twists and turns make this movie extremely interesting, keeping you riveted to the edge of your seat right up until the very last moment.
(Webmaster note - - As I watched this movie, I kept wondering, is Leslie Nielsen wearing a "piece"? A funny thing happened at IMDB on this movie. I swear the first time I looked at their reviews one of their reviewers said "..the worst movie I have ever watched ten times..." I thought it was a pretty funny review, but I can not find it again. Their current review is pretty favorable.)
Mister Scarface
Review
If you love dramatic films you will be thrilled with this movie. The film begins with Tony, a mob loan collector, who finds that he is no longer satisfied with his life. He dreams of striking it rich one day but must face the reality of his dead end job. Eventually he meets up with another mob enforcer, Napoli, who has been terminated from his employment with the mob. Together, the two devise a plan to con a mob boss out of some money so that they can spend the rest of their lives in the lap of luxury and retire. Of course, things aren’t always quite so simple and the mob boss, Manzari, isn’t about to let go of his money quite so quickly.
Jack Palance stars in this excellently produced film. Palance presents a character that is both imposing and sinister. Edgy, with twists and turns, this film will keep you teetering on the edge of your seat right up until the exciting climax. Viewers will be delighted by the dynamic direction of the film along with a score that is quite eclectic.
The movie is not without its comedic relief moments, adding the perfect touch to a film that defines drama. This is a powerful film, presenting true to life elements from a real Italian ghetto, that you won’t want to miss.
Till the Clouds Roll By
Review
This wonderful film features renditions of famous songs from the American Broadway pioneer Jerome Kern’s musical plays including a condensed production of his most famous piece, “Showboat.” In fact, the film actually opens with a somewhat lengthy montage from “Showboat,” which has often been considered to be Kern’s most innovative piece.
Film fans who enjoy Technicolor and musicals will fall in love with this film. The musical numbers are handled very well and overall it provides excellent entertainment for 40’s musical film buffs.
Interestingly, Kern died while the film was still in pre-production with MGM. As a result, in order to avoid any type of legal issues, the original version of the film was scrapped and a lighter bio-pic than was originally considered resulted. Still, the film is a masterpiece in its own right. Leading man Robert Walker and co-star Van Heflin provide excellent characterizations in order to keep the somewhat sentimental story moving right along while the musical numbers provide great entertainment.
Stars such as Lena Horne, Virginia O’Brien, June Allyson, Angela Lansburgy, Dinah Shore, Frank Sinatra, Gower Champion, Cyd Charisse and Katheryn Grayson round out the all-star cast. Judy Garland also treats the audience to an extended cameo when she performs “Look For The Silver Lining.” Lucille Bremer, who portrays the role of Robert Walker’s ward, provides a notable performance as well, performing a duet with Van Johnson of “I Won’t Dance.”
This is a film that should belong in the collection of every musical lover.
This is the Army
Review
Fans of war time movies you will surely love this film. During World War I, dancer Jerry Jones hosts an all-soldier show on Broadway, called "Yip Yip Yaphank." He becomes a producer after he was wounded in the war. Years later, his son Johnny Jones, stages a new similar show during World War II called "This is the Army."
Music and film fans alike will be mesmerized by both the story and music in this film. Like many films of the era, it is a masterpiece of war time propaganda, beautifully showcasing the world at the time. Produced as a morale booster during the war, much of the theme of the film may still be seen as ringing true today.
Big name stars, including the a young man who would eventually become President, form the wonderful and unique cast while real U.S. soldiers of the day fill out the musical ensemble. This is a film any musical, flag-waving patriot will enjoy seeing time and time again.
As an interesting side note, the composer of much of the music for this film, received the Medal of Merit.
Savage Journey
Review
History buffs will love this film, which details the founding of the Mormon church and their trek across the country in order to eventually found the state of Utah. Richard Moll (under the aka Charles Moll) is cast as Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, and does an extremely credible job in that role, although this is a somewhat different role than most are accustomed to seeing him in. (Probably most notably as Bull Shannon, the bailiff on TV's "Night Court".)
It provides a nice change of pace; however. His portrayal of Smith is right on the money, according to historical accounts of the church founder. Several issues that the early Mormons faced are addressed head-on in the film including the early persecution of the church as well as the subject of polygamy.
While the film was created on a low budget it provides a solid, well crafted portrayal. All in all, this is an excellent film, highlighted by a strong story line, excellent characterization and an in-depth portrayal of the early founding of the Mormon church.
This could have been classified as a Western, but that was just the historical context. Besides, the drama of a potential Mormon president is looming large right now.
The Master Touch
Review
Heist film fans will relish this film. While the film was produced on a low budget, you would never know it by the well developed fight scenes that are threaded throughout the film. Starring Kirk Douglas, who provides an excellent performance as an over the hill thief itching to pull one last good score, this is a film you won’t want to miss.
The car chase in the film is one that absolutely should not be missed. Unlike modern car chases, which are frequently handled through special effects, the car chase in this film really does seem to have a master touch and could very well be one of the best car chases ever recorded on film. Compares favorably to "Bullit" and "The French Connection" chases.
Twists and turns throughout the plot will keep you held on the edge of your seat as the characters work to pull off one of the biggest heists ever (this is pre-"Oceans", of course). Fraught with suspense and action, this film will quickly become one of your all time favorites.
The Cape Town Affair
Review
Starring James Brolin and Jacqueline Bisset (this name is vaguely familiar to me, famous even in outer space), this is a film you will fall in love with (well I liked it). The plot revolves around South African secret agents who are working an attempt at saving confidential microfilm before it can fall into the wrong hands; in this case, the Communists.
Much of the delight of this film encompasses the numerous gorgeous shots of Capetown as well as Table Mountain. This is an excellent opportunity to see what Capetown actually looked like in the late 60’s as the film was shot largely on location. Many of the scenes were shot in locations in and around Capetown that were unmodified; providing an in-depth and unaltered view of how the area looked during this important point in history.
Jacqueline Bisset and James Brolin fans will also relish the opportunity to view them in their early prime. How about that, this is a remake of Richard Widmark's "Pickup on South Street" made 14 years earlier. His co-star (Thelma Ritter) in that one received an Oscar nomination for best supporting actress. Wish I could get a copy of that for you.
Junglebook Sabu
Review
Raised by wolves, the now teenaged Mowgli, appears in a village in India and is eventually adopted by Messua. Mowgli begins to learn the human language as well as ways of the humans while at the same time retaining the ways of the jungle learned in his childhood. Unfortunately, a rather influential merchant, Buldeo, is bigoted against all beasts including Mowgli.
His pretty daughter has other ideas and takes Mowgli on a jungle tour. Along the way they uncover a treasure, which will eventually cause numerous problems. Mowgli comes to learn the hard way, although he was raised in the jungle among the beasts, in the human world he must learn to live alongside some of the most savage creatures on earth, mankind.
Loosly based on Kipling’s book, this film tells the story of what might happen after Mowgli leaves his animal friends. Wove with great excitement and some rather evocative views of the Lost City as well as the jungle we gain an opportunity to accompany Mowgli on even further adventures. Filmed in vibrant Technicolor, this is a lavish film that is top notch in every way.
Mowgli is portrayed by Indian actor Sabu, who does an exceptional job of bringing the role of Mowgli to life. He is completely believable in every capacity whether it is ferreting out the secret of the treasure of the Lost City, fighting tigers, communing with deadly snakes or entering the village for the first time.
Cry of the Innocent
Review
This is an extraordinary film that is based on a storyline revolving around a conspiracy focused on industrial spying. A plane that took off from Rome crashes in Ireland. A man by the name of Steve Donegin (played by Rod Taylor) learns that his family has been wiped out in the crash.
When he discovers that the crash was actually no accident, he creates a plan to extract revenge on the people behind the crash. Although he works as an insurance executive in Ireland, Donegin is also a former Green Beret and has all of the sharp and deadly skill that comes with that background.
A savvy, smart saga that will leave you interested from the beginning of the film until the very end. Full of drama and intrigue as well as plenty of exciting action scenes.
An excellent film that delivers plenty of punch and interest.
The John Glenn Story
Review
Fans of space travel should not miss this movie. It allows you to experience John Glenn's journey through space in recordings and footage that was preserved and provided by the National Archives of the United States. The film documents the life of astronaut John Glenn.
It includes Glenn's experiences as a Marine pilot during the Second World War and the Korean War. It features his adventures as the first American to circle the earth.
Overall, an excellent film that perfectly records and preserves the life and times of John Glenn. It takes you through the early days of space travel and one of the most exciting and thrilling moments in the history of space exploration.
(Reviewer aside - No offense intended, but your spacecraft are pretty rinky-dink.)
The Memphis Belle
Review
Many of us remember a very accurate, appealing and authentic film starring Matthew Modine as captain of the World War II B-17 bomber the "Memphis Belle". Its bomber crew was the first to complete its mission quota and return to the U.S. Brilliant photography, excellent acting, a poignant and exciting storyline and deftly handled direction were all combined to create a film that will stay with us for quite a long time.
Well, this isn't that film. This documentary film was made by the U.S. War Department about the real "Memphis Belle" and its crew. This film features actual combat footage of this crew and its aircraft in action over Europe. It helps us to understand the courage, bravery and tenacity of the Memphis Belle bomber crew as they participate in combat missions in vivid and true life detail.
The Snows of Kilimanjaro
Review
Considered by many to be among the best of all the Hemingway tales presented on film, this is a sure winner. In fact, you may find that you pull it out of your movie collection to watch time and time again. One of the reasons that this film is so popular is that it is completely honest and somewhat autobiographical. The enduring plot of the film provides a pleasant diversion even in its simplicity.
Gregory Peck portrays an excellent Harry Street while Hildegarde Neff does an excellent job of portraying the role of Harry's wife. Harry's first wife is portrayed by Ava Gardner who portrays her own role quite admirably. Susan Hayward also shows up in an appearance as another of Harry's wives. (Webmaster aside - How does this guy get so lucky?)
Due to an accident, Harry finds himself in the throes of a high fever and is on the verge of death. He is carefully tended by his third wife in an African camp. Throughout his delirium as they wait for help to arrive, he begins to relive the triumphs, sorrows, loves and disappointments that he has experience during his life. The bitterness he has experienced over the years is apparent as he relives his life in extended flashbacks.
An excellent film that is certain to become a much beloved favorite.
The Man on the Eiffel Tower
Review
This film is certain to become a much beloved classic. Excellent direction, acting, casting and photography create a film that is truly outstanding.
The story focuses on a rich American, portrayed by Robert Hutton, who is torn between his mistress and his wife. Eventually he develops a scheme in which he will kill off his wealthy aunt (what?). In order to do so he hires a sociopath to handle the job. In the process, an itinerant knife sharpener is blamed for the murder. The police, led by Charles Laughton's character Inspector Maigret, work to track down the killer.
The film was shot in a process known as Anscocolor; a process that was originally developed in Germany as a way to compete with Technicolor. The process was used most successfully in numerous films starring some well known actors of their day.
Overall, the film does an excellent job of portraying post-war Paris. If you are a history buff you will certainly find the film to be historically interesting.
The Little Princess
Review
One of the most beloved stories of all time starring the irrepressibly cute Shirley Temple. This is a film that is certain to find a place in the hearts of viewers of all ages. The classic storyline involves a young girl who is sent to an upscale boarding school while her father is away. Later she learns that her father has died and her financial circumstances have drastically changed. This leaves her in the unenviable position of now serving her own classmates in order to earn room and board.
Although she is treated horribly by many of her classmates, who always felt she was a bit too pampered, the young girl still manages to retain her sweetness and even continue her studies on the side. Several unexpected individuals befriend her despite the watchful eye of the headmistress who attempts to turn the girl into nothing but a virtual slave. As is expected, all is eventually resolved quite well but not before a few interesting twists and turns take place along the way.
An excellent film with outstanding acting, writing, direction and cinematography. A favorite in its day and certain to continue to strike a chord with viewers of all ages.
The White Orchid
Review
The plot of this film begins with an archeologist, William Lundigan, working in Southern Mexico. He is under the belief that remnants of an ancient Toltec civilization lie hidden in the remote area. Although he has requested a photographer to come along on the job he becomes frustrated when a young woman arrives to photograph the area. The two have more than a few differences, but she proves to be quite capable in taking the pictures he requires and even convinces a local plantation owner to act as their guide.
As they set out to search for the ancient civilization, the archeologist grudgingly finds that he has come to respect her. Unfortunately, the plantation owner has also become attracted to her and tensions begin to mount even while they all face increasing dangers.
One of the best elements in this film is the on location photography in Mexico. The well developed classic storyline has just enough dramatic flair to set it apart from other films while the twist at the end will catch you by surprise. Will Catherine, the beautiful photographer choose the exotic plantation owner or Robert, the serious yet devoted archeologist? Or, will a tragedy prevent her from choosing either one? Watch and find out in this fabulous adventure film.
Tulsa
Review
An excellent film that is well worth seeing, maybe even more than once. Tulsa, Oklahoma is the setting for the beginning of the oil boom. Cherokee Lansing's rancher father has been killed during a fight with the Tanner Oil Company. Cherokee has begun to plot her revenge as she brings in her own wells along with the help of a certain oil expert by the name of Brad Brady and a childhood friend, Jim Redbird.
After the money and the oil both begin to gush in, Jim and Brad decide they want to protect the land but Cherokee has some ideas that are decidedly different. While her plans started out as a way to extract revenge for the death of her father, her efforts have become an obsession for power and wealth.
Susan Hayward does an excellent job portraying the role of Cherokee as she learns to adapt to the changes which money and power inevitably bring. Overall, the film is very well done. This film is highly recommended not only for those who are history buffs but also those who simply want good entertainment. This is a film you will not regret seeing.
The Brain Machine
Review
Were you a fan of Rosco from the Dukes of Hazzard? If so, then you definitely will not want to miss this great
film starring James Best, none other than Rosco himself. In this great film he portrays a clergyman who is
somewhat emotionally tortured. He has volunteered to participate in a government experiment that is highly
secretive. At first all the other volunteers in the experiment appear to be normal. As it turns out, they all have
secrets they are desperate to hide.
The project is headed up by Dr. Roth and it is intended to study the effects of overpopulation. As the
experiment goes on, the room in which the volunteers are kept grows progressively smaller. The participants
are questioned about the secrets they hold most dear until they eventually begin to confess the truth they
have tried to cover up for so long.
Unfortunately for everyone involved the experiment takes a turn for the worse. Some of the scientists working
on the experiment intend to use it for their own evil purposes. As everyone’s darkest and most embarrassing
secrets are dredged up from the past there is no shortage of suffering and pain.
A completely fascinating, intriguing and chilling thriller (with some editing problems) that will leave you
questioning the utility of environmental ethics as well as some of the actions of government. A film loaded
with dramatic irony, this is definitely a must see.
(Webmaster aside - Well, maybe not. Generally regarded as cheesy by IMDB reviewers, I have to say that I have
rarely seen so many comments by their reviewers on one film. One out of thirteen is favorable, but the net effect is like drawing flies to manure.)
Reviews - Fantasy films
Colossus and the Amazon Queen
Review
This film features the adventures of two Trojan War veterans who are hired by a rich tradesman to guard the cargo of a ship that is headed for an unknown destination. Eventually, the two accidentally come across an army of Amazons and become their prisoners. Pirates invade their ship and the prisoners are forced to fight right alongside the Amazons in order to guard and protect the cargo on board the ship.
Reviews - Fantasy films
Goliath and the Dragon
Review
A warrior who is returning home discovers he must do battle once again. This time he must battle with three headed dogs, gigantic bats and even a vicious dragon. All this is necessary in order to save his people as well as his own wife and to free them from an evil ruler.
This is a film that will delight again and again with a well developed plot and acting. In fact, this could very well be one of the best barbarian films ever produced. Although it was made on a low budget, nothing disappoints in the least. In fact, this would seem to only point to the strength of the movie. The music score is one that won’t be forgotten any time soon while the true heart of the film will stay with you even longer than that.
The real depth of the movie is the empathy for brotherhood; leaving you feeling as though you are taking something tangible away from the film.
Reviews - Horror films
Blood Tide
Review
An American archaeologist, not Indiana Jones, who is hunting for ancient treasures off the coast of a Greek island finds adventure. During his search he unknowingly awakens the wrath of an age-old mythic sea creatures who has been slumbering for centuries. As it turns out the chief elder of the island has studied the legend of the monster and is well aware of the monster’s fury and what it can mean. The main question of this film is whether or not the monster can be tamed. James Earl Jones, Jose Ferrer and Lila Kedrova star in this movie.
If for no other reason, this movie is worth seeing simply because of the presence of James Earl Jones and his incredible voice. During the 70’s and 80’s he was on a particular roll, portraying the voice of Darth Vader and then playing the role of Thulsa Doon in Conan the Barbarian. His role in Blood Tide was performed in 1982 in between those two amazing roles.
The acting in this movie is pretty decent for its genre and the scenery is particularly awesome. Other than that, it is pretty obvious that this is a low budget film. The presence of the main stars adds some credibility to the low budget thriller. Unfortunately, the movie leads you up to what turns out to be an ending without much of a thrill. Get it anyway, James and Jose are terrific.
Bloody Wednesday
Review
Webmaster note - My reviewer was a bit squeemish, so we don't get his official review. I took a peek at this lovely myself. Wacko mechanic takes frustration out on innocent citizens at the local coffee shop. Makes a "Dirty Harry©" shotout look like a Sunday picnic.
Dr. Tarr's Torture Dungeon
Review
This is a particularly interesting film because it is a Mexican production and we don’t usually see a lot of these. While you might think that since it is a Mexican production the movie would have been filmed in Spanish and then dubbed into English, this wasn’t the case. In fact, it was originally filmed in English and then dubbed into Spanish for cinemas in Mexico after the fact.
The story follows a man who has been sent into a forest for the purpose of investigating some rather bizarre behavior of a certain physician by the name of Dr. Tarr. What makes the story even more interesting is that the man himself is also rather mysterious. It would seem that the doctor has established a torture chamber in the forest, completely away from all civilization.
A madman, Raul Fragonard, presides over the dungeon, ensuring that the innocent souls who are brought here meet their hellish end. After being chained in glass cages they finally become the victims of a rather gruesome slaughter. As it would turn out the man who stumbles in upon all of this is a journalist new to the area but before he can unlock the real secrets to this lunatic world (what really happened to his deceased father) he finds himself on trial and having to deal with the lunatics who, as it would turn out, are the ones really running the asylum while the true doctor and his employees are the ones who are being held prisoners.
If you’re an Edgar Allen Poe fan, you will probably find this movie particularly interesting, because the story is loosely based on one of Poe’s tales. This is a fine film set in a Surrealism style featuring great cinematography as well as excellent performances set amid some fantastic locale.
How Awful About Allan
Review
This is an extremely adventurous psychological thriller involving a man who has lost his vision after a tragedy that affected both him and his family when he was still a kid. While there is
technically nothing physically wrong with him, the tragedy has none the less affected his subconscious and now years later he still can’t see. He accidentally set a fire that killed his father (who was no treat) and left lifelong scars on his sister. He still can’t get past the disaster.
Anthony Perkins plays the adult Allan struggling with the past and portraying a man who has been through more than any one person should ever have to face.
After having been institutionalized for years, he now lives with his sister. Perkins does a fabulous job of playing a psychotic individual. Julie Harris portrays his sister and does an admirable
job of it in the process. Both brother and sister are dealing with money problems as well as the issues from their past. To make ends meet they rent out a room to a boarder. Things really take a turn for
the worse at this point.
Allan then begins to hear strange voices and to feel as though there is some unknown force that is out to get him. Full of plenty of suspense, you’ll be fixed on your seat throughout the entire length
of this film. An exciting story line and superb acting make How Awful About Allan a film that is a true delight for those who enjoy a good horror/psych flick.
The director, Curtis Harrington, also directed What's the Matter with Helen? and Whoever Slew Auntie Roo. This film was originally made for TV.
The Witches Mountain
Review
In this fascinating horror film a young couple is traveling through the Pyranees. They find themselves staying overnight at an ancient castle. During the night they discover, quite to their surprise, that
the castle is actually acting as somewhat of a headquarters for a group of witches. As you can imagine, things only become more and more interesting from that point on.
Directing, characterization and acting are all quite good in The Witches Mountain, combined with some great photography. All in all, the scene is set quite well for a horror flick that will keep
you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
The entire film is extremely tense, leaving you guessing throughout the film. While there are some extremely tense moments throughout the movie, the ending takes place quite satisfactorily.
Patty Shepherd portrays one of the main characters in the film and does a very admirable job of it. Her character is one of the main highlights throughout the entire film. She actually went on to become
somewhat of a star in movies of this genre.
Deep Red
Review
In this film a psychic with the ability to read minds stumbles across the
thoughts of a murderer and ultimately becomes a victim. We begin at a
paranormal convention where a psychic seems to sense that someone in the audience is
evil, perhaps even a murderer. A renowned pianist who is in Rome teaching at a music
school later witnesses the murder of his neighbor, the same psychic from the
convention. He can’t seem to help becoming involved in the investigation when he
realizes that there are numerous things that don’t seem to add up. Any progress he
makes is cut off as it becomes obvious the murderer is tracking his movements.
A trail of clues lead to an absolutely riveting finale. At the conclusion of
the film, you will be stunned at the identity of the real killer. Clues lead to the
revelation. However, they are extremely subtle making the surprise at the end even
more intriguing. A plot twist adds to the suspense that will keep you glued to your
seat.
Beyond the interesting plot of Deep Red, viewers will find the visuals to be
particularly arresting, including stark images in high contrast lighting and visual
symmetry. This is a film that has it all; excellent visual style, great story,
masterfully done death scenes, and an atmosphere that remains solid throughout the
film. If you’re a fan of horror films, you won’t want to miss Deep Red.
Devil Times Five
Review
This chiller tracks a group of sociopathic children who
escape from a psychiatric transport, after it crashes. The bus driver is killed and
the five disturbed children on board the bus manage to get away and take refuge in a
nearby resort that has been closed for the season. A local crime boss by the name of
Papa Doc, portrayed by country and western singer Gene Evans, and his son are in
residence along with the rest of his group. Not realizing the true identity of the
kids, they taken in and provided with refuge.
As for the kids themselves, their characters are rather interesting. One is
under the impression she is a nun while another is convinced he is a child movie
star. Yet another appears to be a mini-soldier and even dresses the part. The kids,
who range in age from 10 to 14, slowly proceed to play wicked mind games with the
adults and mete out physical torture.
This is a truly chilling film, perhaps even more so due to the fact that the demise
of the unfortunate is at the hands of children who all have a mental illness. Be
aware there are numerous gory scenes, including shootings, stabbings, hangings and
more. This is definitely not a film for young children. However, if you are a lover
of horror, this is an impressive film.
Drive-In Massacre
Review
This story begins as we follow two police detectives in their quest to
catch a serial killer. Th killer is stalking a drive-in movie theater located in rural
Texas. Perhaps even more disturbing is the fact that the killer seems to have no
method to his madness. He randomly kills people using his weapon of choice, a
sword.
If you’re a fan of ‘70’s era horror flicks, this is one film you won’t want to
miss. The suspense is handled well throughout the film to its satisfying, and
surprising, conclusion. The storyline takes a strong departure from most slasher
films, focusing on the investigation of the two policemen as they attempt to solve
the gory murders. There are also some great comedic relief moments that keep the
film going.
The Demons of Ludlow
Review
Horror fans will definitely love this film complete with scenes that are genuinely frightening, unlike many horror films. Start with a town that has been presented with a piano on its 200th birthday. Unfortunately, the piano turns out to be anything but a wonderful gift.
Soon we learn that a group of warlocks have actually come back to life intent on one purpose; destroying a town and reclaiming the severed hands of Ludlow. It seems the warlocks have taken refuge in the giant white piano that has been presented to the town. They periodically come out in order to murder the grandchildren of the people who actually killed them.
Excellent casting and directing make this film truly a gem along with creepy music that really sets the right tone for the film. Horror collector films will definitely want to make this one a keeper as it is truly a masterpiece.
The Cold
Review
In this excellent horror film three millionaires who are bored gather together nine people in an old mansion and give them the proposition of conquering their biggest fears in order to get one million dollars in cash. While this film was produced in the 80’s it has a hint of reality TV's The Fear Factor.
Numerous scenes throughout the film are quite creepy as the group embarks on attempting to overcome their biggest fears in order to get the big prize. There are also several twists and turns throughout the film, keeping viewers on the very edge of their seats. In addition to plot twists there are also plenty of other surprises along the way as well as a dash of humor and a healthy dose of tension just to keep things interesting. Outdoor sequences really add to the creepiness of the atmosphere, which is quite chilling at times.
All in all, this is an excellent film and one that horror fans will be sure to love.
Cathy's Curse
Review
This movie, also sometimes billed under Cauchemares, is about a young girl with a very serious problem. She has this favorite doll and unfortunately the doll has been killing people. The movie starts off way back in 1947 when a woman abandons her husband and daughter and leaves with her son. The husband goes off with the daughter to look for his missing wife and son. He ends up having a wreck and both he and the daughter are killed. The movie skips ahead to thirty-something years later when a man brings his wife and daughter to this really spooky house.
While she’s looking around the house the daughter, Cathy, finds a doll. Now, the doll is actually quite ugly and you get the feeling from the beginning that something isn’t quite right with this doll. As it turns out, the man in question is none other than the young boy who was taken by his mother except that now he is all grown up with a family of his own and he has returned to his childhood home. Shortly after his daughter, Cathy, finds the doll some really strange things start to happen. The man’s long dead sister begins to take possession of his daughter and then people start either going crazy or popping up dead. (Webmaster aside - I think laying down dead would be more likely.)
You definitely get the feeling that this film was inspired by The Exorcist and the like but if you like those types of films, it’s a pretty good way to spend a couple of hours. Some of the scenes are really creepy; especially those with the doll.
Naked Massacre
Review
(Webmaster note - This movie is so horrific my reviewer collapsed during viewing and was unable to finish his review. In fact he was so discombobulated that he missed two other reviews while recovering. So we called on our friends at IMDB for their review by Coventry from the Draconian Swamp of Unholy Souls for his penetrating review.)
"Naked Massacre is pretty strong stuff; a disturbing thriller definitely NOT for squeamish or faint-hearted people! It's not that gory or exaggeratedly sleazy, like the two key words of the title lead you to believe, but it's truly intense and filmed in such a sober way that you'll feel VERY uncomfortable.
The story is something like Agatha Christie's "Ten Little Indians", only in this case it's Eight Pretty Nurses. Actually, that's not funny since this movie is inspired by the murders committed by real-life madman Richard Speck in 1966, Chicago. The setting of this notorious case has been moved, very ingeniously I may add, to Ireland in the mid-70's, when there was the post-Vietnam depression as well as the Irish civil war and bombings.
On his way home from Vietnam, a young American soldier ends up in Belfast with no money or acquaintances. He's traumatized, has a very nihilistic world perspective and a petrifying hatred for women. It doesn't take long before he breaks into a mansion and starts terrorizing the eight young nurses that live there.
Naked Massacre is obviously cheap and poorly edited, yet the atmosphere is constantly grim and the murders are genuinely shocking. The girls are physically abused, emotionally tortured and eventually stabbed to death with a BIG knife. There are no morals, comic reliefs or happy endings here, so only people with an iron stomach will be able to sit through this movie without suffering from nightmares afterwards.
The acting performances are pretty decent, despite some of the dialogs being extremely inept and cheesy. Highly recommended in case you're searching for a horror/thriller that will really get under your skin."
The Bell from Hell
Review
We find a young man who has been released from an asylum and is returning home. His plan is to extract revenge on his aunt and cousins who all had a part in having him declared insane and sent to the asylum so they can take his inheritance.
Unlike many stock horror films, this movie contains an unusual feel that will keep you clasping the edge of your seat until the climatic end. Dark cinematography adds to the total effect of the film. This is definitely one of the most unique horror films you will ever come across. An ingenious story line and some very impressive shock sequences will certainly fill the bill where this movie is concerned.
As an interesting side note of trivia for this film, the director actually died after falling from the bell tower on the very last day of filming. An element of mystery still remains regarding whether the fatal fall was the result of an accident or whether it was possible that foul play was involved. The incident alone certainly lends a whole new light to the film and the infamous bell which dominates the storyline. (Webmaster note - How unlucky, this just happens to be our horror film #13. Coincidence?)
Panic
Review
(Webmaster note - This the third movie my reviewer missed after succumbing to the horror of Naked Massacre. Again, we called on our friends at IMDB for their review by kevgates (kevgates@yahoo.com) from Letchworth, England for his devastating review.)"Panic is dreadful. I, the only reason I watched it was to see David Warbeck and Janet Agren (with silly perm) and have a few laughs. Indeed the only thing one can do with a film like this is laugh. Chuckle at the attempt to match stock footage of streets in England with the streets of Spain. Roar with laughter at the cinema scene in which the lights go out and all we see is black for a good minute as the monster attacks the audience. Frown at the huge rat that makes an appearance in the sewer only to never be seen again for the rest of the film?
There are so many goof(s) in this film it is unbelievable, the best one has to be a Police Rover driving to the scene of one of the murders and the car which arrives is a Ford Cortina. Oh the pain of watching Panic, I still don't think I've fully recovered from the experience." (Webmaster note Re: David Warbeck - He was on the (exceedingly) short list to be the third James Bond, in Live and Let Die, 1973, until Roger Moore was able to spring free from TV commitments.)
Sisters of Death
Review
In this grasp the edge of your seat until the end thriller, a new member of an all girl secret society is killed during her initiation while playing Russian Roulette. Years later the survivors of the incident receive anonymous invitations to a reunion at a lavish estate. The estate turns out to be owned by the father of the girl who died. It seems he gradually became crazy after her death.
The girls become locked into the estate by an electric fence and are then stalked. The film progresses with some rather unexpected surprises regarding the accomplice of the stalker, leaving you wondering until the very last moment as to the stalkers’ true identities.
As horror films go, this one is actually rather tame; which makes it perfect for those fans who enjoy a good horror flick but would rather eschew (Reviewer aside - I just learned this word) the gore and violence. There is just enough suspense and surprise to keep the film moving right along while solid acting delivers a film that is sure to become one of your prized favorites.
Silent Night Bloody Night
Review
In this moving and dramatic film, Wilford Butler returns home on Christmas Eve to discover that his home has been converted into a mental institution for the criminally insane. (Does anyone know where he has been while this happened?) Shortly after his return (that very day in fact) he is lit on fire and burns to death. The people in the town believe that his death was merely an accident. Never the less, the institution that his home had been converted into is closed.
The home is left to Butler’s grandson Jeffrey, who decides to sell it a few years later. To his surprise, the people of the town (including the mayor) have some mixed feelings on the matter. Meanwhile a serial killer has escaped from another mental institution and has taken refuge in the home. As time goes on, he begins making some frightening phone calls to keep people away from the house and eventually begins killing anyone who comes near the house.
The big mystery is what does the killer have in common with what happened to the unfortunate Wilford Butler several years before? This film will leave you guessing throughout, while packing a major punch with a surprising twist at the end. Although there are actually several clues as to what is really going on in the very strange town of East Willard, you will be firmly stuck to your seat in anticipation as the mystery unfolds.
All in all, I rate this film a masterpiece. Utilizing a wintry location along with an imposing house, the effects are excellent. The extended flashback, which chronicles what occurred at the estate during the 1950’s, is particularly effective; utilizing a wide-angle lens and sepia overtones to create a truly realistic scene. Along with excellent acting and a strong plot, this film presents a suspenseful story that is well worth watching.
Slashed Dreams
Review
This funky film begins with a group of college students who are concerned about a friend who has dropped out of college and moved into the mountains. Later, Jenny, who was particularly close to her dropout pal, Michael (played by Robert Englund), has a spat with her boyfriend at a frat party. It seems that the boyfriend thinks none too kindly of the recently reclusive friend and doesn’t mince words about it. Thoroughly disgusted with her boyfriend’s attitude and behavior, Jenny drives off with another friend in search of Michael.
Along the way they stop at a country store that is operated by a night club wannabe (actually portrayed by the legend Rudy Vallee.) Concerned about the young people, he warns them not to go alone into the woods; but they do not heed his advice. Traveling on, they come across a cabin they believe might belong to their friend Michael. Things go from bad to worse at this point when the couple is accosted by criminals in the woods.
Interestingly enough, Robert Englund, who later played Freddy Kreuger in the Friday the 13th series of slasher movies, appears only briefly toward the end of this film. Crime and drama fans will be like stapled to their seats throughout the climatic end to this movie as it presents dramatically how a life can instantly be changed by events that happen in the blink of an eye.
Messiah of Evil
Review
If you are a fan of avant-garde you will love this very unusual film. It takes a step away from the
normal kind of zombie movie we are used to (well, maybe you are, I'm still from another planet and we don't have zombies there). Here we find a sorry bunch of small town residents who have
slowly been turned into the living dead, zombies, by a rather supernatural force (well it would have to be, wouldn't it).
Throughout the whole time they remain functional and are able to move, speak and generally act
just as a normal living person might. The film takes a departure from normal zombie movies in that, instead of having a main goal of eating the living, the objective of these zombies is to wait for the coming of their dark messiah.
Overall, the film is quite surreal, expressionistic and very imaginative. It is also extremely dark, so it is
best suited for individuals who like that type of cinematic expression. Several scenes are more than memorable, including some that are extremely sharp and moody; quite exceptional for the era. The cast is exceptional, providing some superb performances including Michael Greer and Marianna Hill.
Scream Bloody Murder
Review
Horror fans will be delighted with this intensely gory film. (Webmaster note - This was another toughie for our little reviewer. He added the word "upchuck" to his rapidly growing vocabulary after sitting through this beauty.) The film begins with a young boy, Matthew, who runs over his father with a bulldozer. He then runs over his own arm. He is then sent off to a juvenile mental hospital for much of the rest of his adolescence. After several years he is finally released and returns home to find that his mother has remarried. He subsequently kills his step-father and when his mother discovers this he kills her as well.
He then sets off on the road and continues his killing spree; haunted by the face of his mother.
During his killing spree he encounters promiscuous young couples as well as several other interesting
characters including a rather unique dog who doesn’t even bark. Throughout it all Matthew is search for a traditional mother figure like the one he killed. Unfortunately for Matthew, however, everything continues to fail to fulfill his psychic need.
While created on a low-budget, this is truly a classic American horror film that will satisfy the most
serious horror film fan’s need for gore.
The She Beast
Review
Viewers can’t go wrong with this classic horror flick, starring the captivating Barbara Steele, from Black Sunday, and directed by Michael Reeves; the famed director of “Witchfinder General.” Mel Wells from Little Shop of Horrors also makes an exceptional appearance in this classic film as a hotel owner with more on his mind than the well being of his guests.
The story unfolds as a young couple begins their honeymoon at a hotel in Romania. All seems well at first. The newlyweds have tea with an elderly count, who lives nearby; Count Van Helsing. During tea they are regaled by a tale of a murderous witch who was killed in the nearby lake several hundred years ago. The count cryptically warns the young couple that the lake where the witch was killed can still be quite a dangerous place.
Things get difficult when the couple learns that the owner of the hotel, portrayed by Mel Wells, has been spying on them during intimate moments. Naturally disgusted, they decide to leave the hotel immediately. Unfortunately, as they are fleeing from the creepy hotel and hotel owner, their car is run off the road and into the same nearby lake the count warned them about.
Although the husband survives the car crash, the young wife’s body becomes possessed by the ghost of a witch who died in the lake some 200 years before. During the 17th century, in Romania, the murderous witch had been captured and lynched in a rather brutal fashion by the local villagers. Now resurrected, the witch begins a killing spree that will leave you dripping from the edge of your seat. Barbara Steele’s performance in this role is nothing short of outstanding.
Fans of Michael Reeves won’t be disappointed either; as his work in this film certainly rivals his direction of the exceptional 1968 horror classic Witchfinder General.
Bloody Pit of Horror
Review
Starring the highly popular Mickey Hargitay, this film is a classic that shouldn’t be missed. Hargitay stars as a reclusive actor who has gone mad and is now possessed by the evil spirit of the Crimson Executioner.
His innocent victims turn out to be a group looking for locations for a photo shoot. They stumble upon what appears to be a deserted castle and believe it will be perfect for their purpose. The castle was actually the former home of the Crimson Executioner. The Crimson Executioner was a murderer who killed himself in the castle just after placing a curse on anyone who might enter the castle.
As we know, the castle isn’t really deserted, but is instead inhabited by Hargitay’s character, the retired actor who simply wanted some solitude. He invites the group to spend the night at the castle and take pictures. His only request is for them to stay away from the dungeon.
Of course, that is just too much temptation and the group of photographers and models almost immediately make a trip to the dungeon where they discover a wide array of torture devices. They believe the devices will serve as good props for their photos.
Unfortunately, something goes wrong and one of the models is killed by spikes that begin to fall. Was it merely an accident, or, is it possible there is a murderer somewhere in the castle. One by on8 more members of the group begin to disappear. It would certainly seem that the Crimson Executioner has returned to make good on the curse he placed on the castle.
With everything necessary for a good horror flick, a creepy castle full of secrets, a dungeon outfitted with torture devices and a crazy madman on the loose, this film is a true classic. Extremely entertaining and definitely a film that shouldn’t be missed.
Curse of Demon Mountain
Review
This is perhaps one of the most interesting films ever produced. The basic idea of the film is quite fantastic and possesses a large amount of novelty as well as mood.
The plot centers around a Confederate captain by the name of Wishbone Cutter (played by Joe Don Baker) and his half-breed Indian scout who is also a mystic. The two survive the Civil War and then go in search of a cache of diamonds that have been hidden in a haunted cave in a mountain that is said to be cursed.
Along the way on their search they run into a geology expert and then rescue a damsel in distress. The band of explorers eventually make their way to the mountain and meet up with a cannibal.
There are numerous twists and turns throughout the movie to keep you interested along with a bit of every kind of favorite genre including high adventure, romance, drama, war, western and horror. Regardless of what type of film you prefer you will find something in this film to like.
House of the Dead
Review
In this entertaining film, a man is having an affair with a married woman. He finds himself on the wrong street after trying to return to his hotel. It is raining and he stands out in the rain until he is finally invited inside by an older man, who turns out to be a mortician. As they wait out the rain, the man tells him stories of the people who have ended up in his establishment.
As the film reveals stories of the people the mortician has worked with, there is some humor as well as quite a bit of clever dialogue. Great acting ability by the two leads round out this wonderful and memorable film.
If you like offbeat, humorous films with a dark side this is definitely a film that should not be missed. It has enough interesting aspects through the revelations of the stories of each of the four corpses to keep everyone interested while providing a backdrop that perfectly melds all of the stories together.
Lady Frankenstein
Review
This is one of the most interesting Frankenstein films ever produced. The leading lady of the film, Rosalba Neri (as Sara Bay), is nothing short of magnificent and possesses incredible on screen presence. She is often known for her sexy and sexual presence on the screen but she also demonstrates incredible acting talent as well.
In a rather novel and unique departure from the usual Frankenstein films, this movie delivers a strong impact. It begins by Dr. Frankenstein purchasing a corpse from a grave robber in order to use it in his experiments. Unfortunately, his daughter arrives and puts somewhat of a kink in his plans. He continues on, however, in his plan to create life. Eventually his monster does come to life and almost immediately kills the doctor.
The daughter is also a doctor and wants to continue her father's experiments. While the monster continues to terrorize the entire community, the daughter works on a plan to take the brain from the lab assistant and place it into a servant. The only question that remains is whether she will succeed.
(Webmaster aside - Contains a bit of "X" rated material.)
Haunts
Review
A truly haunting film that begins with the rape and murder of a young woman. From here the viewer is taken through flashbacks in which a religious young woman is stalked and a mystery develops. You find yourself wondering who is stalking Ingrid. Is it the young punk or the young man who has rather mysteriously just moved to town? Is it possible it could be her own uncle?
Much like a Stephen King style horror film based on the demons that fill small town life, this is a movie with a storyline that builds slowly until you are totally immersed. Very well done with a lot of attention to detail. The austere, vivid atmosphere adds to the overall tone of the film. May Britt, who portrays Ingrid, does an excellent job as do many of the other actors.
The storyline holds numerous surprises as well as several edges that are quite unexpected and unusual. A well thought out and executed horror film that is perfect for the viewer who doesn't mind letting the tension build and who does not need to rely on instant gratifications. Overall, a very satisfying film.
Horror Express
Review
A very entertaining film that should not be missed. A British archeologist discovers a frozen ape man at the beginning of the century. The ape man is then placed on board a Trans-Siberian railway that is traveling from China to Russia. Thus begins the Horror Express.
Christopher Lee portrays the man who actually uncovers this fossil, which turns out to be much more than it at first appears to be. The beauty of the terrain in which this film was shot is an interesting aspect of the film.
The host of characters are equally interesting, including Peter Cushing who portrays a scientist by the name of Dr. Wells. Christoper Lee does a very good job, as can be expected. The remainder of the cast also offer excellent performances. Overall this is a very fast-paced action film filled with science fiction that is inventive, chilling and gory.
Definitely worth viewing and a must see for everyone who is a fan of classic horror films. Very probably one of the best horror films to be produced during the classic age of horror films.
Paper Man
Review
An excellent film that should not be missed. If you are into extremely scary horror films, this is one that should be part of your collection. One of the most frightening aspects of this film is that it has numerous possibilities which could really happen. Quite a frightening thought. An extremely original plot line that keeps you captivated from the beginning to the frightening end.
Plot revolves around college student pranksters who use their computer knowledge in order to create an individual who can get around the credit restrictions which are normally placed on students. As one can imagine, this quickly gets out of hand and the person they create suddenly won't allow himself to be sent back into the cyber world.
The storyline of this film will keep you guessing right up to the very end. Excellent acting with some great leading roles; one of which is Dean Stockwell, who gives an excellent performance.
The Satanic Rites of Dracula
Review
In this fabulous film, the meetings of a secret organization begin to concern the British Intelligence. Evidence has been discovered indicating that high ranking officials are participating in satanic rituals.
Professor Larimer Van Helsing, portrayed by Peter Cushing, is an occult expert who is called upon to interpret the evidence that has been discovered. He uncovers the fact that his friend, Professor Keeley (Freddie Jones) is actually involved. When professor Van Helsing goes to question his friend about the incidents, Keeley is killed and the professor is left for dead.
After returning to the authorities, professor Van Helsing turns over the information he has discovered. Eventually it is discovered that Count Dracula, portrayed by Christopher Lee, is behind all of the incidents, and is on the verge of unleashing vengeance of unprecedented proportions on mankind. Professor Van Helsing must rush to stop him before it is too late.
The great storyline behind this film, along with the excellent performances, deliver a double power punch that results in a very entertaining film. A nice blend of contemporary horror, spy suspense and action.
Scared to Death
Review
The title of this film reveals its secret. A woman is slowly being driven crazy. The depths of her madness are so severe that by the end of the film she actually does die (opps, sorry). Numerous circumstances and images are used to help bring about her strange demise. The true mystery lies in the identity of the antagonist. There are actually several suspects including the maid, her husband, her father-in-law, a mysterious uncle and even a dwarf companion of the uncle.
Starring George Zucco and Bela Lugosi, this is a film that will leave you gripping the edge of your seat and wondering to the very end as to the identity of the real perpetrator. Excellent direction and solid acting create a film that is sure to be a classic.
The Gorgon
Review
This film is certainly one of the best ever produced by Hammer Films. The imaginative and daring premise is both refreshing and familiar. Based on the idea that a female spectre is so hideous to look upon that all who do will immediately be turned to stone.
The film boasts an entire host of star power including Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing, both of whom are at the top of their game in this excellent film. The score by James Bernard is nothing short of brilliant and scripting by John Gilling is sterling. Excellent photography defines the look that has now come to be associated with Hammer Films. It is teeming with spectacular forests in their autumn glory and somber interiors that cry out to viewers. Terence Fisher's direction in this film is perhaps among his best. Characterization in the film is superb with Lee's character of Professor Meister played to perfection.
Our Gorgon is one of the three gorgons from Greek mythology. It has been terrorizing a village in Europe in 1905. As the moon turns full, villagers are turning to stone when they gaze upon the gorgon. The local doctor is played by Peter Cushing, who works to cover up the rather supernatural deaths by issuing death certificates that are false. The local chief of police is also covering up the deaths out of his own fear. Christopher Lee's character turns up to investigate the matter after two of his friends become petrified and he ultimately solves the mystery.
Reviews - Martial Arts films
The Brave Lion
Review
Two Japanese prisoners are sent to manage a Chinese labor camp during World War II. The workers begin to revolt when the new Japanese managers push them too far. Wei Chi-Wan, Wei Tze Yung and Lee Hzu star in this movie, directed by Ng Yu Chen, also better well known as John Woo.
The movie exemplifies an anti-Japanese feeling commonly apparent in Chinese films. During the film one of the bad guys actually becomes a good guy, although it should be noted that he is killed before the end of the movie (thanks reviewer). One of the best things about this movie is that it doesn’t tend to be as incoherent as many of the other martial arts films out there but like most martial arts films the standard bad editing and direction is present along with plenty of out of focus photography shots. If you happen to like Woo as a director, this is a good movie to see, especially if you like his action sequences; which tend to be quite extraordinary in this movie.
Chase Step by Step
Review
If you’re a fan of classic martial arts movies, you’ll be sure to love this particular film. It features a relatively simple plot. There is no personal vendetta or revenge, like in many other movies. Instead, the plot of the movie features a hero and heroine who are on a mission to deliver a specific box. The box contains money to fund relief for a drought stricken community. As it would turn out, word gets out on what they’re up to and there are other people who want to have the box.
There are some really neat characters in this movie as well as several cool villains. The knife and sword specialists are also pretty neat. The stunts are really terrific and will leave you in awe. Unlike a lot of other similar movies there are no super powers, but the kung fu stunts are really amazing and graceful. Be aware that there are no sub-titles but because the plot is so simple you really don’t need them and the dialogue is in English.
The fact that the kung-fu is practically continuous throughout the movie is nice. If you’ve never heard of this movie, do be sure to watch it, if for no other reason than the fact that Hsu Feng stars. She is very probably one of the most elegant and beautiful of the femme fetales of this particular period in film history. She actually appeared in four of King Hu’s classic films. She later went on to produce films such as Red Dust after her acting career was basically finished.
Black Fist
Review
Black Fist, one of the many martial arts films produced during the mid-1970’s, zeros in on a young man who works on the streets of Los Angeles as a street fighter, Leroy Fist. Fist, who is portrayed by Richard Lawson, becomes involved with the mob and actually begins working for the local mob boss. During this time he works with a wide variety of seedy characters, including hoodlums and even some dirty cops. Eventually he changes his mind and decides that he wants to try to change his life.
After a receiving a large sum of money from a successful fight he purchases his own club. He soon discovers that his decision to break free isn’t as easy as he had originally thought. The mob kills his wife and Fist finds himself forced to seek revenge and retribution for the killing. The process of his revenge shows a lot of exhilarating and exciting action that will be sure to thrill any martial arts fan.
This film was also released under the names of Black Streetfighter and Homeboy. This is an excellent film, filled with a lot of exciting action and adventure. Unlike some martial arts films, there isn’t a lot of deep characterization; however, if you’re simply looking for a film to wow you for a couple of hours with some amazing martial arts stunts and tricks, this one is a winner to choose.
4Robbers
Review
Charlie Cho and Shek Hon star in this action packed martial arts film. The plot tracks four criminals from the Chinese mainland who travel to Hong Kong for the purpose of finding money. The four robbers (hence the name of the movie) share a very close relationship as they attempt to find their fortune.
For the most part, this movie isn’t about deep characterization or even really the plot, but you don’t mind it so much because the action is so exhilarating and exciting that it alone is enough to watch this film and really enjoy it. The stunts and tricks are absolutely amazing and are quite fast paced.
For martial arts fans, this is definitely a movie worth catching.
Heroes of Shaolin, Part One
Review
Probably some of the best Kung Fu action you’ve seen in awhile. Unlike a lot of Kung Fu movies this
one is destined to be a big hit with the ladies because it focuses on a particular type of ‘soft’ Kung
Fu that is easier for women to master and allows them to strike in the most vital of targets.
Judy Lee is taught this type of Kung Fu, known as Shaolin Crane Fist but the problem is that her
father doesn’t want her doing it, so she’s going against his wishes by pursuing the art. Her father
was once a Shaolin and the things get really tense when Judy runs into a Manchu Warlord and his crew,
who are determined to get rid of all students of Shaolin.
One of the best things about Heroes of Shaolin Parts 1 and 2 is that there is not only good action but
also a good storyline and excellent performances as well. There’s even some comedic relief portrayed
by Ting Hua Chung just to make sure that everything keeps on flowing well. Raymond Lui and Judy Lee
stand out in particular, delivering very memorable performances. Of all the movies Judy Lee has
starred in, this probably captures her at her best.
Her moves are excellent, demonstrating action that is fast and swift. There’s really not anything
missing from the action in this film, even if it does display a softer style of Kung Fu. The
acrobatics are particularly amazing. It would be remiss not to also mention Kam Kong as what can be
described as nothing other than a good villain. Although we haven’t seen a lot of Raymon Lui, his
performance is quite solid here.
Probably the only the only warning that should be issued here is that there are some scenes where
individuals bleed from the throat and mouth, so those scenes might make the film not really suitable
for younger viewers or those who are squeamish; but other than that this is a high quality film sure
to keep you entertained.
Heroes of Shaolin, Part Two
Review
Probably some of the best Kung Fu action you’ve seen in awhile. Unlike a lot of Kung Fu movies
this one is destined to be a big hit with the ladies because it focuses on a particular type of ‘soft’
Kung Fu that is easier for women to master and allows them to strike in the most vital of
targets.
Judy Lee is taught this type of Kung Fu, known as Shaolin Crane Fist but the problem is that her
father doesn’t want her doing it, so she’s going against his wishes by pursuing the art. Her father
was once a Shaolin and the things get really tense when Judy runs into a Manchu Warlord and his crew,
who are determined to get rid of all students of Shaolin.
One of the best things about Heroes of Shaolin Parts 1 and 2 is that there is not only good
action but also a good storyline and excellent performances as well. There’s even some comedic relief
portrayed by Ting Hua Chung just to make sure that everything keeps on flowing well. Raymond Lui and
Judy Lee stand out in particular, delivering very memorable performances. Of all the movies Judy Lee
has starred in, this probably captures her at her best.
Her moves are excellent, demonstrating action that is fast and swift. There’s really not
anything missing from the action in this film, even if it does display a softer style of Kung Fu. The
acrobatics are particularly amazing. It would be remiss not to also mention Kam Kong as what can be
described as nothing other than a good villain. Although we haven’t seen a lot of Raymon Lui, his
performance is quite solid here.
Probably the only warning that should be issued here is that there are some scenes
where individuals bleed from the throat and mouth, so those scenes might make the film not really
suitable for younger viewers or those who are squeamish; but other than that this is a high quality
film sure to keep you entertained.
Webmaster note -If you think you have read this before, you did, if you read the review of Heroes of Shaolin, Part One
The Street Fighter
Review
If you’re looking for great martial arts films, this is certainly one to watch. While it is difficult for anyone else to ever fill the shoes of the great Bruce Lee, Sonny Chiba certainly does an admirable
job. Even fans who remain loyally dedicated to Lee will thoroughly enjoy this film.
In this film Chiba’s character, Terry, has been paid by some other people to take out yet another group of people. Terry is basically a mercenary with a martial arts twist.
After a big wig businessman dies and leaves a huge inheritance to his daughter, the mob tries to hire Chiba’s character to kidnap the girl. He asks for an outrageous price, which they refuse to pay. Instead they try to kill him. Since he’s not going down without fighting, he volunteers his services to protect the girl from the bad guys.
While that would be enough to keep you fastened to your seat, there is also a sub-storyline about a bloodfeud over a disputed debt. There are some terrific action sequences and the fantastic directing makes this a martial arts film that will be remembered for a long time to come.
For those of you who might be a little squeamish be aware there is one scene in the film that is somewhat violent. Actually, it’s kind of interesting because the film was originally given an X rating
because of that very scene. Most films get an X rating because of gratuitous sex but that wasn’t the case with this film. With lots of great fighting, fantastic direction and a great music score to boot,
you can’t miss with this film. You’ll be sure to watch it time and time again. This one is an absolute winner.
Fist of Fear Touch of Death
Review
If you’re a Bruce Lee fan you won’t want to miss this film. It staged in New York city where a World Karate Championship is being held in Madison Square Garden to determine the successor for Bruce Lee. The film is intercut with footage from several previous Bruce Lee films as well as interviews from promoters and fighters regarding the famous Bruce Lee. There are also several pseudo-documentary footage scenes as well.
As most Bruce Lee fans know, he was tremendously successful and the mystery surrounding his death has raised many unanswered questions. There has been some speculation that Lee may have been murdered because he had revealed too much regarding the history of Chinese Martial Arts, such as the secret of the vibrating palm. Whether or not Lee was actually murdered it has also been speculated that whoever would fill his shoes could also have the same problem.
The question also arises as to whether his power was possibly hereditary. The premise is set forth in this film that Lee was born under the same sign as well as on the same day as his great grandfather, who is presented as a Samurai swordsman during the 19th century.
Produced like a news-documentary, the film covers several interviews on the subject of Bruce Lee’s death and numerous speculations regarding the subject. Clips from real Bruce Lee films, including some of his early roles, are included.
This is a film you must see if you are a fan of Bruce Lee and are curious about the subject of his life, death and the future of martial arts. Unless, this whole review could have been created by a reviewer seriously under the influence of tainted Reese's Pieces and an alternate review is considered. What would an alien know about Bruce Lee and martial arts? Probably more than film producers who confuse Karate with Kung Fu and think Samuari are Chinese.
Kung Fu Arts
Review
Another in our collection of "if you’re a fan of martial arts movies," this is one that shouldn’t be missed. Here we have a follower of the Emperor who will soon be his son-in-law. The young man overhears a conversation between an allie of the Emperor in which plans are made to do away with the Emperor so his right hand man can take the throne himself.
The young man, King Chi then stops the assassination. However, the conspirator, Pai Yeh Hu, turns things around and makes it look as though King Chi planned the assassination all along. When he is unable to prove his innocence, King Chi leaves the palace and hides for ten years. While in hiding he begins to practice gung fun, planning to one day kill the man who ruined his life.
This is a rare movie that is definitely worth seeing with plenty of exciting action and adventure. Interesting dialogue and excellent acting compliment a well crafted storyline.
Kung Fu Kids Break Away
Review
The next time you’re looking for comedy and action, be sure to check out this movie. It begins with San Mao, who is an orphan wandering around in search of the mother whom he never knew. After his father died in a war and his master is shot by enemy soldiers, San Mao has nowhere else to go. Before his master died, however, he taught San Mao numerous styles of kung fu, many of which were acrobatic.
San Mao then uses these skills on the street to earn money. As he travels into a new town he comes into contact with a beggar by the name of Ou Pu Li. Ou Pu Li lives in the forest with another orphan, a teenage girl by the name of Zsa Zsa Meng. At first, when the two orphans meet they don’t exactly get along but eventually they put their differences aside and join together to take down a street bully.
Unlike some movies, this film contains fighting scenes that are truly believable. The young actor portraying San Mao does an excellent characterization job while his action scenes are phenomenal. In addition to the action scenes there are several comedic relief moments.
Webmaster note - This is an excellent movie that works well for viewers of all ages. The IMDB user rating on this film is 7.8 out of 10. "Much better than I would have expected..."
The Four Shaolin Challengers
Review
Looking for a good martial arts film to watch? Be sure not to miss this one. Here is a group of students who have joined together in order to get rid of the gang of Triads that have all but taken over their neighborhood.
Numerous action scenes make this film a truly edge of your seat winner that will keep you hanging on to the very end. Choreography, acting and cinematography are all handled very well. The culmination of the movie is punctuated with an awesome fight scene that will truly leave you in awe.
Unlike some movies in which bad guys are really pitted against more bad guys, this movie shows off the efforts of a group of students who simply want to bring their neighborhood back. This is a refreshing take for a movie that is already an entertaining and satisfying watch.
Return of the Street Fighter
Review
Taking its cue from the first movie, this sequel doesn’t disappoint in the
least. If anything, the plot of this movie is even better than the first. In addition
to excellent characterization and storyline, the choreography is just brilliant and
truly well handled.
The action and adventure scenes are everything you would want them to be,
although it should be pointed out that they are somewhat violent and perhaps not
appropriate for younger viewers. Several scenes contain flashbacks to the first film
that work quite well, allowing you to really get into the film even if you somehow
missed the first one.
The plot features Sony Chiba as he returns to serve as an assassin for hire who
takes on a large group of entirely new villains. The film starts off with an awesome
fight scene involving the police that clearly sets the pace for the rest of the film.
The arch enemy from the first film also returns for this film, continuing on his
quest to seek out vengeance again Tsurugi, portrayed by Chiba.
A subplot also surfaces in the film involving a disgraced policeman who
eventually seeks help from Tsurugi. Since Ratnose died in the last film, this time
around Tsurugi is assisted by a young woman but as it turns out there is a bit of a
surprise involving that as well. If you loved the first movie, you won’t want to miss
this one.
Ninja The Protector
Review
Jackie Chan stars in this excellent ninja film as a rickshaw runner with a past but a dream. After Chung Fun (Jackie Chan) steals a sacred scroll from the forbidden city he finds he has no choice but to become Ninja the Protector of the Sacred Scroll. His cohort is Cao Pi, a wisecracking but amiable fellow. As the film continues he kidnaps the Princess, portrayed by Yvette Chang. Numerous twists throughout the film will keep you stuck on the edge of your seat. With a cameo appearance by Richard Harrison, who not only writes
the scroll but teaches Jackie Chan everything he knows, this film is a definite winner.
Strong choreography adds to the excellence of this film; possibly one of the best ever in a ninja film. Special effects, including flamethrowing and smoke effects will leave the viewer in awe. (Webmaster note - Keep in mind, my reviewr is just a little guy.)
Ninja fans will love this film, which is destined to become a much beloved classic, watched time and time again.
Ninja Champion
Review
While camping in the woods a couple is attacked by a group of thugs. The woman is beaten and raped during the attack. Afterwards she plans to take revenge by hunting down the attackers. The thugs who attacked her turn out to be diamond smugglers so she decides to pose as a dealer who is trying to find some merchandise that has been stolen. Her husband, who is an Interpol agent, is also working to track them down and bring them to justice. The entire time, while the couple is working to track down the thugs, a group of ninjas is watching their plans while waiting to make their own move.
If you’re a big fan of ninja movies this is one film that you definitely should not miss. Packed with action, adventure and suspense, this film will leave you nailed to the edge of your seat until the very last moment.
Head Hunter
Review
If you’re a Chow Yun-Fat fan you will love this film. Numerous action scenes make this film a poised on the edge of your seat winner that will keep you hanging on to the very end. Choreography, acting and cinematography are all handled very well. The climax of the movie is punctuated with an awesome fight scene. This is a refreshing take for a movie that is already an entertaining and satisfying watch.
Martial arts fans won’t want to miss this one. Unlike some movies, this film contains fighting scenes that are truly believable. It contains an excellent characterization job with action scenes that are phenomenal. In addition to the action scenes there are several comedic relief moments. If you’re a fan of martial arts movies, this is one that shouldn’t be missed. This is a rare movie that is definitely worth seeing with plenty of exciting action and adventure. Interesting dialogue and excellent acting complimenting a well crafted storyline.
Return of the Kung Fu Dragon
Review
The legendary Polly Shang Kuan stars in this highly entertaining and enjoyable film. Colorful
costuming, fast pacing, an excellent storyline and great opening all set the stage for a film that will
likely become one of your all time favorites.
Somewhat complicated, the storyline traces the military conquest of a small and peaceful island nation
by an ally who is nothing short of an evil despot. After his victory, the island’s three heroic protectors
are left dead and their young children are hidden away in an effort to protect them.
The
children grow up with different identities, completely unaware of their actual heritage. It is the hope of those who seek to protect them that eventually, when they have come of age, they will take their
parent’s heritage to become heroes in their own right and defeat the evil ruler who is now in charge of
the island. Polly Kuan takes the lead as one of the children, who surprisingly in the course of events,
is actually adopted by the conquering despot himself.
Beautiful cinematography and a strong, compelling storyline that is frequently character driven round
out a film that you surely will not want to miss.
Sister Street Fighter
Review
Lee Long is a martial-arts champion who occasionally works with the police as an undercover agent. In this case he is attempting to infiltrate a drug ring that is responsible for importing heroin from Japan to Hong Kong. After he is identified and then imprisoned (reminds me of "...the secretary will disavow all knowledge of your actions..."), the police begin to put pressure on his sister, Tina Long, to assist them in their efforts to free her brother.
After agreeing to their plan, she calls on her brother’s martial-arts school for help, including the very powerful Sonny Kawasaka. As a result, the ensuing battle scenes feature many different styles of fighting. The drug ring is determined not to go down without a fight and have accumulated their own tricks in an effort to win the war that is taking place.
Featuring the very well known Sonny Chiba in another of his series of films, this movie delivers strongly in terms of characterization and fight scenes. Featuring some exciting and dynamic action sequences, this is a film that combines the best of everything in martial arts.
Spirits of Bruce Lee
Review
In this high action oriented film, a martial arts expert named Chang Chen-Wai (Michael Chan) runs a jade import business along with his brother Chang Fan. When Chang Fan suddenly disappears on a buying trip in Thailand, Chang Chen-Wai becomes concerned and makes the decision to travel to Thailand in order to find his brother. Once he arrives, he meets up with another kung fu expert by the name of Li Pai-Yu.
Together they fight off local thugs in the village and quickly become friends. Li offers to help Chang Chen-Wai in search of his brother and they embark on a journey that involves some mystery and twists and turns. They discover that Chang Fan was actually murdered by the goons of a local gangster and Chang Chen-Wai sets out to avenge his brother’s death.
Filled with suspense and mystery along with some very well choreographed action scenes, this is a film that will leave you precariously balancing on the edge of your seat as you follow the action. Solid casting and a sound storyline prove to be a workable combination for this film, a must see for all action film fans.
Shaolin Deadly Kicks
Review
In this action filled film we follow a band of robbers who took a treasure map three yeas ago and
divided it into 8 different pieces. There is a police officer who will now stop at nothing in order to retrieve all of the pieces. As one might imagine, the rest of the film is a mad chase to retrieve all the pieces, with twists at every turn keeping you hanging on the edge of your seat to the very end.
There are several high-kicking confrontations, showing off some fancy footwork that would be the envy
of any martial arts fan. The fight scenes leading up to the culmination of the film are particularly awe inspiring.
An exciting film, unique in style and storyline, this film features superb characterization, casting and acting. This is a film you will surely want to add to your collection and view time and time again. If you are a fan of martial arts inspired action films you surely won’t want to miss this movie.
Shadow Ninja
Review
This film is truly a gem, particularly for action fans. Featuring breathtaking fight scenes, including some high-level kung fu scenes, this movie will leave you impaled on the edge of your seat.
Characterization in the film is excellent, highlighting a hero who is not only a self-confident fighter but also a believable character as well. Comedic relief moments are appropriately scattered throughout the movie.
Our plot focuses on a rather mysterious killer who actually turns out to be two killers. This is an extremely entertaining movie, featuring bold fight scenes, comedy and suspense that will leave you wondering what will happen next.
A rare movie, definitely worth seeing, with plenty of exciting action and adventure. Filled with interesting dialogue and excellent acting that compliment a very well crafted storyline. Numerous action scenes make this movie an edge of your seat winner that will keep you hanging on until the very end. Choreography, acting and cinematography are handled very well with a culmination that is punctuated with a fight scene that will leave you gasping for breath.
Image of Bruce Lee
Review
Bruce Li fans won’t want to miss this classic movie. Bruce Li and Chang Leih portray a pair of undercover detectives working to bring down a band of counterfeiters who have made it their mission to take Hong Kong as their new territory. Yin-Chieh Han of Fists of Fury fame portrays the head of the operation, Han Tin Lung.
Han discovers he not only has problems with the police force interfering in his business but his partner has suddenly become quite unhappy with his cut of the counterfeit business. When he tries to bring a relative of Han, Donna, on his side, the problems really start. The character of Donna is well developed and amply revealed bringing a humorous and often amusing tone to the film as she interacts with the various other characters.
Several surprise twists and turns and revelations will keep you rooted to the edge of your seat in this highly entertaining martial arts film. Complete with numerous Kung-Fu fighting showdowns that will leave you in awe, including a final climatic showdown. This is a film that you will want to add to your collection and watch again and again.
Death Machines
Review
In one of the most interesting films to be released during the heyday of the 1970’s, an evil oriental Dragon Lady crime syndicate boss finds a way to inject three former martial arts fighters with a special serum that essentially turns them into her own personal specially trained assassins. Once she has them under her control and power she begins to send them out to terminate anyone who gets in her way.
A highly entertaining movie, the film begins and ends with a surprise. The opening scene sets the pace for the rest of the film with a fight scene that demonstrates some interesting martial arts moves. Now under the power of the evil crime syndicate boss, the newly created death machines are sent out to take out some of their lady boss’ enemies in order to prove their allegiance to her. Plot twists along the way will keep you adhered to the edge of your seat wondering where the storyline will take you next.
While this film was originally created on a very low budget, you will be amazed at the special effects included such as several car crashes and even an airplane explosion that will keep you firmly attached to your seat. Martial arts fans will enjoy the big fight scene that takes place at the martial arts school while action fans won’t be disappointed with a large battle that occurs between a phone booth and a bulldozer (really).
Throughout the film the death machines remain completely silent. They hardly need to speak at all as they continue to assassinate anyone their boss deems appropriate. A film for true action and martial arts fans at heart, this film is one you won’t forget for some time to come.
Deadly Duo
Review
An old-style kung fun movie starring John Liu and Angela Mao. This film was also presented as "The Two Great Cavaliers" and "Blade of Fury". As viewers may know, John Lui has earned a reputation as a famous super kicker while Angela Mao is without a doubt one of the best female kung fu fighters in the business. Lots of action that will keep you pinned to the edge of your seat. Choreography is nothing short of amazing.
If you’re looking for a great martial arts film, this is the one to watch. With lots of great fighting, fantastic direction and a great musical score to boot, you can’t miss with this film. You’ll be sure to watch it time and time again. An absolute winner and a rare movie that is definitely worth seeing with plenty of exciting action and adventure. Interesting dialogue and excellent acting compliment a well crafted storyline.
Numerous action scenes make this film a winner that will keep you hanging on to the very end. Choreography, acting and cinematography are all handled very well. The movie culminates in an awesome fight scene that will leave you breathless to boot.
Killer of Snake Fox of Shaolin
Review
From a popular genre comes this fantasy tale about fox spirits in love with mere mortals and the supernatural combat between rival spirits that soon ensues. The tale begins as Carter Wong meets up with ghost spirits and falls in love with one of them.
The visual aspects of this film are particularly arresting and are certainly something that you will remember for quite some time. Much of the film was shot on location in Taiwan and these scenes are particularly memorable. The transformation of animal spirits to human forms and then into animals such as foxes and other animals is handled with ease. Other special effects contribute to the overall feeling of the film.
Choreography is also notable with fight scenes that set the standard for this genre of film. They serve as an excellent showcase for Carter Wong’s skills which are known to be quite fast paced. Excellent directing, casting and a solid storyline combine to create a film that is surely a classic and one that you will want to add to your collection.
(Webmaster aside - I'm not sure that my little reviewer was really paying close attentiion to this film. I do check up on him once in awhile as I preview all these movies myself. You might want to consider a couple of alternate, "slightly" less favorable, reviews found at IMDB presented by Yagyu Tajima from Texas and others.)
Shaolin Invincibles
Review
In this highly enjoyable martial arts film, two young girls are rescued by Shaolin monks after their entire families were executed upon orders of the king. They are then trained in the fighting art of Shaolin. After they come of age they make the decision to extract revenge against the king who ordered the deaths of their families. Two men also trained in Shaolin are sent to assist them.
Even with the additional help, it certainly isn't easy for the girls and their helpers to obtain revenge against the king because he has a formidable guard of highly skilled Kung-Fu experts. In addition, his castle is filled with traps to protect him. To top it all off, he is served by two Kung-fu bodyguards who appear to be completely unstoppable.
This film delivers a lot of exciting fighting scenes including several scenes in which the female leads demonstrate their skill. The storyline is extremely easy to follow and overall this film is very enjoyable.
Shaolin Temple
Review
This film could very well be the high mark of all martial arts films. A rousing kung-fu epic, this film boasts a number of amazing fight scenes. The plot is highly interesting and fits the choreography displayed in the film quite well. This is a film that is very enjoyable overall and quite remarkable in both subject matter and choreography.
There is a definite sense of reverence which is displayed for both the traditions and the history of the Shaolin Temple. The entire subject matter of the film is handled very well in order to produce a film that is interesting, enjoyable, and reverent.
If you are an admirer of the Shaolin culture, this is certainly a film which should not be missed. When you view this film you will definitely experience a palpable sense of nostalgia. This could very well become one of those films you add to your collection and view time and time again.
The Guy with Secret Kung Fu
Review
Starring Li Chung Chien (Gen) and Meng Fei, this is a film that is certain to strike a chord with martial arts fans. Two anti-Qing rebels make a habit of rescuing damsels in distress. The film begins with a boat fight as thugs attempt to board the boat that is carrying a lovely lady. The two heroes are fishing nearby and immediately leap into the boat and fight off the thugs. They are later captured and then recruited in an effort to go after the Dragon Gang.
There are numerous fight scenes throughout this film. The plot is also quite interesting including some villains who are surprisingly good including a corrupt official as well as the beautiful female lead of the Dragon gang, Sally Chen Sa Li.
During the film a Taoist monk uses mystical spells in order to turn a fighter into a zombie warrior who is practically unstoppable. Compared to many kung fu films available, this is a highly interesting movie with excellent on location work and strong performances by the three leads.
The Impossible Kid
Review
The film begins with an agent, a midget working with Interpol, who confronts gangsters. At one point in the film, the agent is placed in a cage and must find his way out of the situation.
The bad guys are so bad they are quite entertaining. Numerous special effects are used to create a highly entertaining film including self-destructing television sets and some choreographic moves by the agent during the fight scenes.
There are also several scenes throughout the film which are quite memorable and are sure to be remembered long after you have watched the movie. If you are a martial arts fan this movie is an absolute must see.
This film has it all including a great lead, extortionist terrorists and great fight scenes. The agent himself is completely cool, much like Austin Powers, and always a hit with the ladies. He zooms around town on a miniature motorcycle and manages to complete death defying moves.
(Webmaster aside - The opeing three minutes before the titles role are worth the price of admission.)
The Real Bruce Lee
Review
A very interesting and exciting documentary about the well loved Bruce Lee. This film contains informative and interesting documentary information about Lee as well as an entire movie featuring a promising new fighter, Dragon Lee. The movie features exciting effects and excellent martial arts fighting. The documentary focuses on selected clips from Lee's first four films, all of which were produced during his youth in China.
Clips are from "The Little Dragon", "The Bad Boy", "Carnival" and "Orphan Sam." The only scene Lee ever did with his father is also included. Scenes of Lee behind the camera and during casual scenes are also featured in the documentary. Anyone with at least a passing interest in Bruce Lee will be delighted with this film. Collectors will certainly want to own the footage included in this excellent documentary.
Overall, very nicely done, includes rare shots that are difficult to find anywhere else besides this excellent documentary.
Ninja Death 1
Review
An excellent film which should definitely not be missed. If you are a fan of martial arts films you will certainly enjoy this film. Great acting, excellent choreography and plenty of action and adventure to keep the most seasoned martial arts fan glued to the edge of their seat. Plenty of dramatic scenes interspersed throughout the film combined with sheer drama. An excellent music score, solid storyline and fantastic acting.
In fact, many of the action scenes in this film are so good they could very well be some of the best fight scenes you will ever witness in a ninja film. The accurate and lightening fast fighting scenes are completely top notch. The fight scenes alone are absolutely worth watching this film. When combined with the solid storyline this film is sure to be a winner. If you enjoy ninja films, this one is sure to quickly become one of your favorites.
(Reviewer aside - This is the first in a series of three Ninja Death films. What is most strange about these films is the total lack of on screen credits either at the beginning or end of the film. It took a great deal of research to find out the names of any of the individuals involved in the making of these films and very little could be discovered. Enjoy the action.)
Weapons of Death
Review
Follow along as the hero tries to rescue a young girl who has been kidnapped. A business woman has refused to knuckle under and pay up money requested for protection in Chinatown and as a result her family has been targeted for payment. Her daughter, Angela, is kidnapped following a battle and her brothers must follow in hot pursuit in order to get her back.
Meanwhile the business woman discovers that she can turn to only one person for help. The one man who is ruthless enough to take on the assassins who have kidnapped her daughter is her ex-husband.
Excellent fight scenes, a strong storyline and plenty of action and adventure to keep you interested until the very end. A few twists in the storyline that are unexpected and will certainly keep you on your toes. An excellent film that will certainly be a hit with enthusiasts of this genre as well as those who are simply looking for a good film for entertainment.
Ninja Death II
Review
Every bit capable of living up to Ninja Death I, this film is one that you certainly will not want to miss. Whether you are a martial arts fan or you are just in the mood for some fast paced action with a great storyline, this is a film that delivers on all points.
Plenty of action and adventure will keep you glued to the edge of your seat as well as the screen. Sheer drama and comedic relief are combined with perfect expertise to create a film that displays seasoned martial artists at their best.
You may even find it difficult to determine which of the movies in this series offer the best fight and action scenes, as all are quite outstanding. Lightening fast scenes and an intriguing storyline are both above average. The overall package is one which creates a film that is winner in every regard.
The Snake the Tiger the Crane
Review
In true Shaolin fashion this is a film that will astound, amaze and delight. Starring Carter Wong and Yen Nan-Hsi, this is a film that martial arts fans will find to be both dramatic and gripping. This film could quite possibly be one of Wong's best films with plenty of seat gripping action and a storyline that is compelling and will leave you wondering until the very end what will happen next.
Make sure you pay close attention because in many of the fight scenes, the choreography is so detailed and fast that you may find yourself wondering if the action could actually be real. Rest assured that it most certainly is. The exciting choreography, however, is just the tip of the many perks this film has to offer. Acting and storyline are both very solid.
Ninja Death III
Review
If you are a ninja fan you won't want to miss this continuation in the popular Ninja Death series. The black robed martial artists known as ninjas are actually a secret clan who follow their own code of honor. The third installment in the series takes you into their adventurous secret world and allows you to gain an up close and personal look at this ancient cult.
Certain to be a film you will want to watch again and again, this series is about as good as it gets when it comes to martial arts movies. There is not a thing about this film that is not to like. The choreography alone will leave you astounded while the direction of the film is nothing short of superb.
Overall, an excellent film that is certain to delight martial arts fans and particularly those who enjoy learning more about the secret world of the ninjas.
(Webmaster aside - Okay, I've had about enough of this. These Ninja Death films are just weird. Lots of disjointed action, confused storylines. Are Ninjas good or bad? It looks like either or both. I think my little buddy has no clue. He's just fascinated by all the wild action. I would only buy these out of curiosity. Buy any one and I will send you a link to the other two.)
Ten Fingers of Death
Review
Jackie Chan stars in yet another excellent martial arts film. This time Chan's character dreams of learning the mysterious martial arts. However, his father is vehemently opposed to any kind of fighting even if the purpose is self-defense. Chan's character encounters an outcast martial arts teacher in the forest one evening and he begins to teach Chan how to fight.
When Chan's father learns that his son has been fighting and learning martial arts behind his back he thinks up some rather creative forms of punishment. The ever increasingly tense storyline leads up to a grand finale of a showdown which leaves you once again in awe of Chan's tremendous skill.
Chan fans will certainly be delighted with this film and will want to add it to their collection. This is the type of film that begs to be seen again and again. With excellent direction, a strong storyline, superior acting and action scenes and choreography that will take your breath away this film is a certain winner.
Hands of Death
Review
This top-billed film is definitely one that is worth watching. If you are a martial arts fan, you will find plenty about this film to enjoy. An excellent plot provides plenty of interest to this film; however, the real star is the great amount of action scenes. Fast paced Kung Fu action will keep you interested from the beginning of the film to the end.
Excellent characterization add to this film. Choreography is handled with depth and precision; to the point that you will find yourself practically holding your breath during several scenes.
If you are looking for a film that is exciting and yet has plenty of depth and interest, this is definitely one that you will want to see. If you are an avid martial arts fan, you will certainly want to add this film to your collection.
(Webmaster aside - Oh, by the way, it's about....?)
Tiger Love
Review
Tiger love can be tender and it can be rough. In this highly unusual adventure, it turns out to be both. Start with a young couple in love. They don't realize it at this point, but she is pregnant. Enter the family who are opposed to this marriage.
In the ensuing dust-up (new expression for me) she falls off a cliff and is believed to have been killed. Why no one bothers to search for the body is not explained. But she survives and is rescued by a tiger. The tiger takes care of her and the son she bears.
Fast forward to the son who is now a teenager and wants to visit her mother's village where he comes in touch with the father (now married to another). In the ensuing trouble, the tiger goes on a rampage. You just have to see it to believe it.
This film is not to be confused with another of the same name which follows a Spanish Robin Hood who calls himself the Wildcat.
Ninja Empire
Review
Ninja fans will be certain to absolutely love this film. It is a definite departure from many classic Ninja movies containing an element that is completely different and interesting. The direction, acting and great plot make for a movie that is completely spell-binding. This movie really does have it all. In many ways, this movie is destined to become a classic itself and will certainly be a sure fire hit with ninja fans.
The film was incredibly well made. From the fabulous photography and compositions to the excellent acting and superb plot, this movie will absolutely blow you away. The costumes and set designs are nothing short of stupendous. (Webmaster aside - This is a new word for my reviewer and he may have overstated his case).
The musical score is quite impressive as well. This is quite surprising as the musical scores for many such films fall short of being great. That is pleasantly not the case in this film, which is certain to delight martial arts fans. Production standards for this film were obviously very high and the movie contains wonderful cinematography, lighting, action and acting.
(Webmaster aside - Okay my little friend, what were you on when you watched this
turkey. Checking IMDB, I found the following comment Terrible, but hilariously terrible!)
Death of a Ninja
Review
In this classic martial arts film, a fortune teller has prophesized that the person who marries the incredibly beautiful Ukio will become the next ruler of the world. This makes her quite naturally very popular among those who would dearly love to obtain power.
In particular, she is quite popular with Lord Donjo who is insatiable in his desire for power. Only one ninja can foil his plan and as a result save her. In order to do that, he must first do battle with a deadly team of evil monks who serve Lord Donjo.
This movie really is unlike anything else you have ever seen. It takes a decidedly pleasant departure from similar movies and is surprising in both its simplicity and its complexity. The plot itself is quite superb and interesting. In addition, the direction and cinematography are absolutely breathtaking. This is a film that you cannot help but love, if you watch it.
Reviews - Mystery films
Funeral for an Assassin
Review
Vic Morrow stars as Michael Cardiff, a professional assasin who seeks revenge on those responsible for his past prison sentence. By disguising himself as a black South African, he sets his plan while foiling the police. Van Dissel plays the cop, Roos who is dedicated and stops at nothing. Nicely filmed in South Africa complete with period music, clothes, and cars. I recommend it highly to those who enjoy films set in Africa. (The Wild Geese, Dogs of War, Fatal Assasin) Good action scenes and vintage depiction of apartheid Suid Afrika.
Medusa
Review
This film takes place in Greece and revolves around a brother and sister; Jeffrey and Sarah. At the beginning of the movie Sarah has become engaged to be married to a guy named Nikos. Her brother, who is somewhat of a playboy, has become involved with the mob by taking out a loan.
The only problem is that Jeffrey is possibly about to be disinherited when his father makes out a new will and if that happens he won’t have the money to pay back the mobster, Angelo. This is a really big problem because Angelo actually borrowed the money to loan Jeffrey by borrowing it from the syndicate.
As the film progresses, anyone who had any contact with Jeff and Sarah’s father’s new will are beginning to turn up dead. You begin to wonder who is responsible for the murders when a boat is found with a couple of bodies in it. There is a local cop who is investigating the deaths and begins to formulate his own ideas about what is really going on. George Hamilton portrays the character of Jeffrey.
Funeral Home
Review
As creepy suspense movies go, this is one of the best. How could it go wrong, when the movie is shot in a home that was once a funeral home? The story starts out with a 16 year old girl who travels to her grandmother’s house; the former funeral home. The grandmother’s husband, a mortician has disappeared and she finds herself forced to turn her home into a bed and breakfast because of financial problems.
Not long after she arrives, Heather begins to see a boy from nearby who takes great pleasure in telling her all about the gossip and tales of her grandmother’s home. At first, Heather doesn’t believe any of it but when she begins to help her grandmother get the house ready she becomes concerned when creepy things begin to happen. There are creepy voices down in the cellar and then the door starts to open all by itself. Things get even worse after they actually open their doors to guests. The guests begin to mysteriously disappear and then some of them are actually found dead.
The film was directed by Canadian William Fruet. In case you’re not familiar with him, he directed an excellent film called Death Weekend, which centers around rape and revenge.
There are some Alfred Hitchcock overtones to this film, but it’s definitely not a rehash of the same old thing. There are some rather startling surprises in store for both the young widow and the viewers as the film proceeds, mainly locked away in the cellar of the former funeral home.
Lesleh Donaldson plays the main role. You might remember her from films such as Curtains and Happy Birthday to Me. The grandmother’s character is especially creepy, adding to the overall effect of this movie. This film was also billed as Cries in the Night.
Ransom Money
Review
The film flows from the kidnapping and ransoming of a rich woman’s
son, set against the drama and intrigue of the Las Vegas Strip. Broderick Crawford
portrays the lead detective in the case, attempting to get to the bottom of the
mystery and recover the son.
As one can expect, nothing is really as it seems and some twists and turns
along the way will leave you wondering what could possibly happen next. Vegas fans
will be intrigued with the Vegas photography, portraying the way Vegas looked three
decades ago before the glamorous and ritzy casinos of today made their way across the
Strip.
Great characterization, a strong storyline and some comedic relief moments all
add up to a wonderfully satisfying film.
The Woman Hunter
Review
"I Dream of Jeannie" fans will love the chance to see Barbara Eden star in this
wonderful mystery film. Eden portrays a wealthy woman who comes to Acapulco to rest
and relax after a car accident in which she killed a man. Her husband, portrayed by
Robert Vaughn, travels with her and although she had hoped he would help her in her
rest and recuperation it quickly becomes apparent that he is interested in nothing
more than business.
A mysterious other man by the name of Whitman soon enters the picture and
although Eden’s character is flattered by the attention at first, she quickly begins
to suspect that he is either making an attempt to steal her jewelry or kill her.
This discovery launches the film into a series of mysterious events as Eden’s character attempts to convince everyone, someone, anyone that the man is stalking her and means to harm her. Unfortunately, she doesn’t seem to be able to convince anyone, particularly the local police who believe she is paranoid.
Eden’s character, Dina Hunter, sports a number of gorgeous and varied outfits
throughout the film, often baring that famous navel that we all grew so accustomed to
during her Jeannie days. Although she is somewhat older in this film, she is still
never the less, quite beautiful.
If you’re an Eden fan and love mysteries you can’t ask for more than this film.
The Terror
Review
This film follows a young officer in Napoleon’s army who is pursuing a
mysterious woman. He pursues her to a castle belonging to an elderly Baron. Here he
finds out that she is the pawn of an old witch who is intent on driving the Baron to
commit suicide. Strangely enough the woman bears a striking resemblance to the long
dead wife of the elderly Baron. Would you believe, this is no coincidence and unraveling the
mystery and secrets behind that will keep you rooted to your seat.
The truly interesting feature of this film is that it gives you the opportunity
to see Jack Nicholson, who portrays the young officer, in his younger days. The actress
portraying the mysterious woman is none other than Sandra Knight, who just happened
to be married to Nicholson at the time this film was made. In addition, director
Francis Ford Coppola did some work on this film, long before he became
famous.
Much along the lines of the works by Edgar Allen Poe, this is a film that is
perfect to watch late at night. The eeriness of the castle and the soundtrack
accompanying the film provide the perfect backdrop for a storyline that is nothing
short of creepy.
(Webmaster aside - This film was recently featured on cable TV's Turner Classic Movies)
The Snake People
Review
If you’re in the mood for a mystery this is one film you won’t want to miss.
For years, the inhabitants of a small and very remote island have been practicing
voodoo and worshipping an evil priest by the name of Damballah. Throughout all these
years the local law officials have virtually ignored the bizarre behavior and activity
of this cult.
When our protagonist Captain Labesch arrives on the island from the mainland, he becomes
determined to put an end to the lawlessness that has been existing on the island and
at the same time clean up the police force that has been allowing it to exist. To
further his intentions he requests assistance from a wealthy plantation owner, Carl
Van Molder (portrayed by Boris Karloff).
Molder owns a large portion of the island and as a result has a lot of
influence over the residents of the island. While he may be a wealthy plantation
owner, Van Moulder has made his life’s work the study of parapsychology. He is also
convinced there are secret powers of the mind. He warns the police captain not to
interfere with the ancient ways of the island.
Van Molder’s niece, Anabella, is visiting and intent on accomplishing her own
goals, namely forwarding a temperance movement. She tries to convince her uncle to
fund the International Anti-Saloon League. Once she meets police lieutenant Andrew
Wilhelm, she immediately falls in love with him, despite the fact that he is a hard
drinker.
Elsewhere on the island some of the most beautiful native girls are being
transformed into zombies and led by an evil snake dancer, Kalea, to attack any
policemen who attempt to meddle in their rituals.
Annabella is kidnapped and it appears that she may be the next human sacrifice
of the cult. Wilhelm and Labesch find they must infiltrate the ranks of the cult to
save her. In the midst of their efforts they discover the secret identity of the
Damballah.
The Ghost
Review
In this gripping tale, a woman and her lover murder her husband who is a doctor. Before long some rather strange things begin to happen and they can’t help but wonder if they really killed him or if he could be returning from the dead in order to haunt them.
The film is set in early 20th century Scotland and serves as a sort of sequel to The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock. The beautiful and much renowned Queen of Horror Barbara Steel plays the gorgeous and younger wife Margaret while Peter Baldwin portrays her lover, who has been entrusted with the care of Dr. Hitchcock.
Margaret and her lover decide to poison the doctor but unfortunately they can’t seem to locate the fortune they believe should have been stashed inside his safe. They immediately begin to search the grounds; albeit under the watchful eye of the rather loyal housekeeper. After the husband’s ghost appears to return in order to settle the score, the new widow and her lover are driven to madness, paranoia and ultimately murder.
Solid direction, good casting and excellent atmospheric photography make this film a classic you will want to add to your collection. Much of the film is shot inside a gloomy mansion with exterior shots kept to a bare minimum. Riccardo Freda does an excellent job of combining lighting, camera movement and sound to create a feel that is completely foreboding and eerie.
As such, this film could very well be one of the best of this genre and definitely one of Freda’s best works. An outstanding musical score adds to the mood of this film. It is an absolute must see for all Barbara Steele fans. She is given a lot of screen time and is quite impressive in her evil role. Be prepared for a twist ending that is definitely worth waiting for but that you will never see coming.
The One Eyed Soldiers
Review
In a border town in Central Europe, the body of Dr. Charles Berens is witnessed hurtling from a parapet of an ancient church. Prior to his demise, the doctor had served as Chief of the United National Medical Relief Organization. Rather than capitulate to his pursuers he chooses to kill himself.
The police chief arrives just in time to hear the dying man gasp, "July the 18th! The One Eyed Soldiers." The police chief is not aware that he has heard the critical words that are the key to locating a wonderful hidden treasure and subsequently returns to his headquarters.
The pursuit and eventual death of the doctor has been observed by one man with more than a little interest. Soon, a series of somewhat chilling events involving several different people begin to occur. None other than the doctor's daughter, is also involved.
It turns out the key was meant to be passed on to her but there are obstacles in the way. An American newspaperman also becomes caught up in the search for the treasure as well as the intrigue that surrounds it. This all makes for a first class mystery. A must for your movie collection.
The Swiss Conspiracy
Review
An American investigator is called in when a breach is discovered in a Swiss bank. The investigator soon uncovers a triangle of blackmail and deceit. To make matters worse, his own safety quickly comes in doubt as he learns too much.
Viewers are provided with a wealth of suspects to choose from in this high quality mystery. Is the real culprit the mistress of the bank’s vice president, two mystery men or the charming female customer who the investigator comes to know quite well? You will be kept guessing until the very end in this wonderful mystery thriller.
The action scenes flow at a good pace while the plot provides some surprises that will certainly leave you wondering what is to come next. All in all, this is an excellent film that is worth seeing and even adding to your collection if you are a die hard mystery thriller fan.
Reviews - Science Fiction films
Attack of the Monsters
Review
The excitement begins when three children stumble upon a flying saucer. The two boys in the trio are taken away to a planet that is in the Earth’s orbit on the other side of the sun. Two women with Midwestern accents inhabit the plant and hypnotize the children so that they begin to fantasize about donuts, milk and a hero turtle, Gamera. In reality, all the women want to do is consume the brains of the children. Meanwhile, the little girl is back home and trying to convince someone to listen to her about the alien abduction. (I wonder why no one will believe her.)
She even tries to convince a police officer, but that doesn’t work either. Eventually Gamera follows the kids and is forced to come to blows with a monster who has a knife for a head, Guillion. There are a lot of scenes in this movie featuring the kids wandering around what appears to be interminably long corridors and talking about alien technology.
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians
Review
As the title might imply this is a fun movie that adults and kids alike will enjoy all the way
through to the end. In the beginning of the movie, we learn that Martians are distressed by the fact
that their children have become somewhat obsessed with television shows from Earth. On these shows the
virtues of Santa Claus are extolled; something that is not satisfactory to the Martians. Determined to
remedy the matter the Martians travel to Earth for the purpose of capturing good old Saint Nick. Once
they arrive they snatch two children who will lead the Martians directly to the North Pole and Santa
Clause.
With Santa and the kids in tow, the Martians head back home to Mars. Now they face they
predicament of what to do with the children and Santa. One of the Martians, who bears a striking
resemblance to the Grinch (at least in temperament) tries to solve the matter by doing away with them
altogether before they even get back home. Fortunately for the kids the leader, named Lomas, puts a
stop to it. After they arrive back home on Mars, the children and Santa befriend a Martian who, while
not possessing a lot of smarts, is at least sympathetic to their situation. Together they manage to
outwit the Martians and ultimately introduce the delight of Christmas cheer to the children on the
planet of Mars.
Beyond the fact that this is an utterly charming and fun movie, you may also take interest in
the fact that none other than Pia Zadora made her film debut in this movie. It’s also interesting to
note that a large portion of the entire movie was actually filmed in an abandoned aircraft hanger.
All in all, this is a great family film everyone in the family, young and old, will delight in.
Battle of the Worlds
Review
Sci-fi fans will absolutely love Battle of the Worlds. Here comes a stray planet that happens to be on a collision course with Earth. Instead of colliding with Earth,
the planet begins to orbit the third planet from the sun.
Excitement really begins to heat up when a fleet of saucers are launched from the planet and begin to attack space fleets from Earth. The special effects are quite effective, pardon the pun, and leave the audience wondering what will happen next.
A scientist, who is somewhat offbeat, known as Professor Benson and portrayed by Claude Rains, begins to work around the clock with a team of other scientists to try and save Earth from a crash with the stray planet. When they discover the planet is colliding with Earth after all, they must switch gears and try to keep the invaders from penetrating Earth.
The quandary, by the end of the movie, facing the good scientists and all of the lab coats working with him is whether it is worth it to sacrifice a few in order to save the entire Earth from possible
invasion and destruction. This timeless quandary leaves the the audience wondering at the sacrifices they would make if forced into a similar situation.
Battle of the Worlds is a sure sci-fi classic that anyone who
enjoys out of this world excitement and drama will enjoy.
Voyage to the Planet of Prehistoric Women
Review
In this exciting and adventurous sci-fi film, a team of astronauts have been forced to crash land on Venus. Once there, they come under attack by monsters who turn out to be prehistoric. The
team is able to kill one of the monsters and then discover the monster was actually a god to the Venusian women living on the planet. After the monster/god has been killed, the women are naturally quite upset and become determined to destroy the people have invaded their planet.
The effects in this film, especially considering the classic time frame from which it hails, are pretty amazing. Just a few of the cool effects you’ll see are a floating space car and a prehistoric
monster that looks ominously real. At times the atomic powered flying car also doubles as a submarine. The huge man eating flowers are also pretty cool. The robot scenes with the astronauts are filled with
plenty of action and adventure, as they roll around in the mud. The sound effects are also pretty amazing.
Throughout the movie the Venusian women are trying to get the invaders to leave their planet, using tactics such as trying to zap them with thought waves. You won’t know until the end what’s actually going to happen because there’s a sudden surprise twist that will leave you stunned.
Destroy All Planets
Review
In this highly entertaining film, a group of aliens have left their own planet and are headed for Earth. For some
reason their intentions are less than honorable and they intend to capture Earth once they reach it. Their plans
go somewhat awry when their ship is destroyed during the voyage by a giant flying turtle named
Gamera.
The aliens send out a second ship, which does manage to make it to Earth, where it is captured by a couple of
Boy Scouts. A remote control is implanted into Gamera’s neck and they then use the giant turtle to attack
Tokyo.
There is much for the entire family to love about this great film. Even younger viewers will likely find this film
to be quite entertaining. The monster action in the film is handled quite well including a scene in which there is
a space battle between a UFO and Gamera. If you are looking for a great film to enjoy with the whole family,
this is it.
The Astral Factor
Review
This story starts with a convicted strangler, Roger Sands, who
has been studying the paranormal from his jail cell. During his study he amazingly
learns to make himself become invisible. Through his new found skill he is able to
escape from prison. From that point he then stalks and attempts to strangle five women who testified against him during his trial. A police lieutenant, portrayed by Robert Foxworth, is assigned to protect the women and catch the invisible strangler before he can kill again. Stefanie Powers portrays Candy Barrett, while Elke Sommer appears as Chris Hartman. Powers’ performance is particularly riveting.
Much of the film focuses on Sands’ maternal abandonment issues, which results
in his stalking of women who resemble his mother. There are numerous flashbacks
during the film of his mother and a cemetery scene that provide a lot of insight
into Sands and the issues that have led to his deviancy. Special effects which are
reminiscent of Star Trek lend interest and appeal.
The stellar cast in this film will keep you strapped to your seat until the
riveting end.
Cosmos War of the Planets
Review
In this film, which takes place in the future, all decisions are made by The
WIZ, which is a giant supercomputer.
A renegade space captain, Mike Leighton, has been sent on what should have been
a routine mission. However, everything goes awry when his ship is attacked by two
alien space ships. After receiving orders from Earth, he lands his ship on the alien planet, which at first he believes to be deserted. A mysterious force soon attacks and kills one of his crew men. The captain and the remainder of his men are then lured into a cave where they come in contact with what remains of the planet’s former inhabitants. The natives then inform the captain and his crew that they were forced out of control of the planet when machines they had built took over. After hearing of their plight, the captain agrees to help them by destroying the mega
computer.
Eventually it appears as though they may have found the secret to destroying the evil supercomputer and are making their escape from the doomed planet. However, a surprising twist threatens to take them down with it.
If you are a fan of the first episodes of Star Trek and Lost in Space, you will
love this film.
The Galaxy Invader
Review
If you’re looking for a great sci-fi movie, this one delivers with a punch. We begin with an alien who is forced to crash land on earth. The crash is witnessed by a college kid who calls his professor to tell him what he saw.
Before the professor can arrive on the scene, the alien finds himself pursued by a group of rednecks who have dipped into the brew one time too many. The alien is eventually captured, but he manages to get away with some help from the college kid and his professor. Even without this interesting plot twist on the traditional sci-fi movie, this would be a fantastic movie worth watching.
This is an extremely entertaining movie complete with interesting special effects and dialogue that keeps you straining on the edge of your seat. When the meteor lands on earth, you will be amazed by the special effects used. Accompanying sound effects are also handled quite well and the music score is quite appropriate.
Character portrayals are also very nicely handled leading you to really experience the predicaments in which the characters find themselves.
(Webmaster aside - I think I overheard my little alien reviewer mumbling something about the alien in this movie looking more like a mummy than any aliens he knew.)
The Revenge of Doctor X
Review
Sci-fi fans will be delighted with this film. Our main character, portrayed by James Craig, is a scientist with a rather bizarre fascination with carnivorous plants. He brings a Venus Fly Trap plant along with him on vacation to Japan. Once there he proceeds to cross breed it in an effort to prove a theory that man evolved from marine life. Eventually he ends up with a final result of a fly plant that contains rather large paws. (Reviewers note - We don't have anything like this on my home planet.) The plant possesses the ability to walk around and leaves a path of destruction in its wake.
I'm not sure why it has to be that way, but the main character is being assisted by a beautiful
Japanese woman. There is plenty of excitement and adventure to enjoy as the story moves along, a
volcanic eruption and a landslide. The cinematography is quite interesting; although it should be noted
that the film was not actually filmed in Japan but rather the Philippines. Ed Wood, who scripted the
film, did a phenomenal job with this one. If you’re an Ed Wood fan, this is a must see film. With
excellent direction by Kenneth Crane, this film will be a sure fire hit with you.
Voyage to the Prehistoric Planet
Review
The year is 2020 and the cosmonaut Marcia is orbiting the planet Venus while two astronauts and a robot begin a journey on the surface of the planet. The group is attacked by prehistoric beasts and lose their robot in the process. Soon they nearly lose their lives after a volcano erupts and engulfs the planet.
During their journey they continue to face many unforeseen challenges including possible intelligent beings and a wide diversity of life forms. They proceed to brave the harsh elements of the planet that turns out to be quite unstable. They confront many challenges while attempting to survive the unbreathable atmosphere and the dangerous creatures they come across.
This is a rare gem of a low-budget film produced a few years ago. One of several clever aspects about the film is the truly ingenious use of visual effects. It also incorporates several inventive technological ideas and even eerie atmospherics. Film history and sci-fi buffs alike will thoroughly enjoy this clever masterpiece.
Where other films of this genre fail, this film delivers a solid performance. The robot, in particular, is quite impressive and very well designed (we have better stuff on my home planet), along with the appearance of a flying car that is nothing short of amazing considering the era of the film. A solid film, very entertaining, and worth seeing.
Track of the Moon Beast
Review
Professor “Johnny Longbow” Salina acts as a matchmaker and introduces Paul Carlson to Kathy Nolan, who has a penchant for practical jokes. Paul, who is an amateur mineralogist, has been lonesome for some time and he immediately hits it off with Kathy. As their romance blossoms, the young couple decide to take a moonlight stroll. Just as things are getting romantic, Paul is struck by a meteorite fragment during a meteor storm.
The fragment buries itself deeply into his skull and begins to cause him to mutate into a large reptilian monster that goes on killing sprees after the sun goes down. As it turns out, this sort of thing has happened before. Professor Salina rediscovers some ancient Native American paintings that detail numerous similar events centuries ago.
Kathy still loves Paul and so she tries to save him. Time is of the essence as myths indicate that he will burn up within just a few days unless he is saved. Throughout much of the plot, Paul is unfortunately unaware that he is the monster. A defining moment arrives when the realization comes to him and there is a tender and emotional moment when both Paul and Kathy realize the truth and that he is destined to die soon.
The premise of the film is thoroughly enjoyable and outdoor scenes shot on location are mesmerizing. Adding to the suspense of the film is an excellent musical score that follows the characters throughout the plot. Directed by Richard Ashe, this film is nothing short of sheer genius, especially considering that Ashe had a very small budget to work with. Special effects are particularly interesting. All in all, this is an engrossing film full of heart and gripping Indian folklore.
This movie was featured on "Mystery Science Theater 3000" in 1999.
The Lucifer Complex
Review
An extremely interesting and unusual film that should be included in the collection of any film collector. Robert Vaughn has a starring role as an investigator checking into a bus crash in which a number of important people are killed.
Eventually he discovers a camp of Nazis and is captured by them. His captors try to convince him that he never stumbled across the camp of Nazis. As it turns out, the purpose of the camp is to attempt to clone world leaders. Vaught finds help among the women of the camp, who assist him in fighting the Nazis.
If you're looking for an interesting film that is unlike anything else you've ever seen, this is definitely one that should not be missed. Numerous twists and turns throughout the plot will keep you firmly perched on the edge of your seat. This is a film that definitely does not disappoint in the least.
(Webmaster aside - This one was a little hard to classify, but the clone thing put it into the science fiction category by a hair.)
Flash Gordon Conquers the Universe - Set 1
Review
(Webmaster note - My little reviewer went into a fit of hysterical laughing convulsions at the sight of Flash's spaceship and did not recover in time to submit his review.)
The review is by Wayne Malin (wwaayynnee51@hotmail.com) from United States as found at IMDB.
"Flash Gordon (Buster Crabbe), Dale Arden (Carol Hughes) and Dr. Zarkov go to the planet Mongo and fight the evil emperor Ming (Charles Middleton) who is shooting "death rays" at the Earth.
I haven't seen the previous two serials so I have nothing to compare it to--but this was pretty good. It moves quickly and there's lots of action: Flash is thrown into a fiery pit; he's trapped in an avalanche; fights silly-looking robots that explode when hit; is zapped by the "Destroying Ray"; has aerial battles with Ming's warships; is caught in a fierce explosion (twice); falls down a huge mountain AND is almost drowned! WHEW!
But he (logically) escapes being killed each time. Also he's joined by Prince Barin, the Forest Men and even some Rock Men.
I also found this pretty progressive (for its time). Dale isn't just a timid female waiting for Flash to save her--she holds her own in fights and takes over the spaceship a few times when he's wounded. The acting is just OK--but it IS just a serial--they weren't trying to win Academy Awards. Hughes is actually the best out of all of them--Middleton is (easily) the worst. Crabbe looks tired a lot--but he was probably sick of playing Flash again and again. The special effects are primitive but I've always liked those silly little spaceships--they're a guilty favorite! Some of the sets are VERY elaborate (probably used from another movie) and the score is wonderful--until you realize you're hearing the same thing over and over.
The best way to see this is one a day or (like I did) three a day. No way can you watch the whole 4 hours in one sitting!"
(Further webmaster comments - Set 1 contains chapters 1-4 of a 12 chapter serial.
Chapter 1 - The Purple Death
Chapter 2 - Freezing Torture
Chapter 3 - Walking Bombs
Chapter 4 - The Destroying Ray
I have no idea if we will be able to obtain any more chapters, but these alone give you a great feel for this type of adventure serial that used to be an integral part of the Saturday matinee experience at theatres half a century or more ago.)
A Boy and His Dog
Review
I thought this would be a cute little movie. Instead, in a post-apocalyptic world, Vic and his dog, Blood, wander around in search of women for Vic to rape and to provide food for Blood. The man and his dog are able to speak telepathically with one another. In his mind, Vic hears the voice of Blood and then speaks aloud to him. After awhile they come across Quilla June Holes, played by Susanne Benton, who is from an underground city. Although she encourages them to come with her, Blood hesitates, sensing that something is not quite right.
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the fact that humor is carefully woven into the plot in order to provide comedic relief from some of the more serious and even frightening scenes in the film. The twist at the end is completely unexpected and will leave you in awe and shocked.
All together, an excellent film, especially considering that it was produced on such a low budget. Acting is excellent and Johnson portrays Vic with clear realism. Benton does a spectacular job as well while the appearance of Jason Robards late in the film provides a pleasant surprise.
Warning from Space
Review
In this entertaining and compelling film, UFOs have been noticed around Tokyo. Naturally there is concern and that concern grows when it is realized that the UFOs resemble giant starfish. What mankind does not know is that the aliens have actually come to warn the people of Earth that there is a meteor on track to hit Earth.
The aliens determine that they cannot approach earth without causing serious alarm. So, one of the aliens takes the form of a popular singer in order to approach Earth without creating a lot of panic. Mankind is warned that a meteor is going to crash on Earth. As the meteor begins to approach Earth, the weather becomes hotter and hotter. Attempts are made to build a weapon to combat the meteor in a last ditch effort at salvation.
This film is quite unique and interesting in its own right. When it was first produced it became an instant hit in Japan. This was partly because it was the first color sci-fi film to be produced in Japan.
They Came from Beyond Space
Review
Fans of sci-fi will certainly be delighted with this wonderful movie. It begins with astronomers who have arrived to investigate a somewhat suspicious meteorite shower in the English countryside. The meteorite shower is unique because all of the rocks landed in a V-shaped formation.
Dr. Richard Arden is the foremost expert in the field of extraterrestrial study. Due to his recent involvement in a car accident he is unable to go along with his colleagues. As they attempt to uncover the mystery, the scientists are taken over by an alien force that has crash landed and which intends to use the scientists to help repair their ship.
Meanwhile, locals are dying from what has been termed a crimson plague. Only one person appears to be
immune to the problems suffered by everyone else and it is up to him to deflect the evil plans of the aliens. This film is based on the novel “The Gods Hate Kansas.
With excellent direction, photography and casting, this film will keep you interested from its beginning until the very end.
First Spaceship on Venus
Review
One of the most impressive features of this film is the excellent use of special effects. The design of the spaceship, in particular, is quite astounding. Even though this film was apparently produced on a low budget, when you see it, you would swear the filmmakers had a huge budget. The sets used on the film are quite lavish and expansive and as a result are very impressive. Visual effects are produced in a very clever manner.
The cast in the film is also quite good and very diversified. During the time period in which the film was produced, this was quite rare in and of itself. The cinematography is excellent, with the atmosphere of Venus coming off as quite spooky and even a little bit bizarre. (Reviewer aside - Which is exactly how it is.) All in all, the entire film has a feel about it that is surprisingly alien (even for a real alien).
If you are looking for a great old fashioned sci-fi film, this is definitely a great choice. It is the perfect choice for the plot, which is well-paced and poignant. The film begins with a discovery that an extraterrestrial space vehicle crash landed on Earth in 1908. A recording from the ship has been discovered and linguists are trying to decode it. A team has been scheduled to travel to Mars but they are diverted to Venus. On the way they make a surprising discovery that could completely change mankind.
All in all, this is a very powerful film, full of mystery and completely surreal in its approach.
(Webmaster aside - some research into this film revealed the following information from "The Beginning, February 2, 2006, Author: tedg (tedg@FilmsFolded.com) from Virginia Beach."
"East Germany as a region was cut out of the space program proper (at the time this film was being produced), something they wanted to change. So huge government monies went into this movie, including permissions to use American film stock and technology.
As it happens, this film proved enormously popular across the communist world and did have a profound effect on the Soviet space program.")
Monster from a Prehistoric Planet
Review
If you like the Godzilla movies that were so popular during the 1960s and even the 1970s, then you will
certainly love this film. It is quite obvious that the film was inspired by King Kong. However, it takes its own unique approach to the genre.
In many ways the film is also influenced by the popular Gorgo monster movie in which a baby monster has
been captured by humans and the naturally angry parent begins to wreak havoc in order to get him back. The difference between this film and that movie is that this film features a double whammy when both the mother and father monsters attack humans in an effort to retrieve their baby.
A couple of scientists have been sent to collect some rather rare animal specimens for a new zoo. After arriving they are informed that the native god of the island is angry and that they should return home. During an earthquake they are able to snatch an egg and quickly return home to Japan, where the egg is placed on display.
The egg hatches shortly thereafter and a future giant creature emerges. Unfortunately for everyone, mom and dad are intent on getting back their baby even if it means destroying Japan in the process.
Very much a classic monster movie and thoroughly entertaining. If you want to introduce your kids to this
genre, this is the perfect movie to use. They are certain to roll on the floor with laughter with the many amusing scenes dotted throughout the film. A fabulous movie that is fun for all ages.
Hercules Against the Moonmen
Review
In this fabulous Hercules film, our hero has been summoned in order to fight against the evil Queen Samara who has aligned herself with aliens. She intends to sacrifice her own people for the purposes of awakening a moon goddess. The race of evil aliens had terrorized Samar for years after crash landing on earth.
Over the years they had demanded children for sacrifice. The Queen of Samar made a pact with them in order to become the most powerful woman in the world. Eventually the people of Samar decide to retaliate and they recruit Hercules to their side in their defense.
All in all, this is an excellent Hercules film with fabulous casting choices. The actress who portrays the Queen is the perfect choice for the role. She is quite capable of radiating the appropriate emotions of greed and hunger without saying a word.
Alan Steele (he and Steve Reeves were born to these roles) makes the perfect Hercules. All of the sequences in the film were handled quite well and this definitely ranks among the best produced of all the Hercules films during this time period.
Eegah
Review
When it comes to eerie thrills, this film delivers that and more. The storyline begins with a teenage girl who is driving through the desert. Her drive is interrupted when a huge giant (played by Richard Kiel, "Jaws" of James Bond fame) appears right in the middle of her path. Her boyfriend's arrival on the scene alarms the giant and she manages to escape. The two return to town to tell her father.
The three set out to find it. However, their plans to capture the giant turn awry when the giant begins to terrorize not only them but the rest of Palm Springs as well. The ensuing chaos is riotous and will leave you gripping the edge of your seat to prevent falling off from laughter.
This is an interesting film that its producers may feel is quite compelling. If you are looking for a film that stands out from the rest, this film manages to do so in a way that will stick in your memory long after the final credits have rolled from the screen.
Reviews - Western films
The Big Trees
Review
This is one of those legendary classic films you won’t soon forget. How could you when none other than
film legend Kirk Douglas is portraying one of the lead characters? Set around the turn of the 20th
century, it involves a timber baron named Jim Fallon, portrayed by Douglas. Fallon
has made plans to use a new law that has been just passed to his own advantage in order to make a
literal fortune off the famous redwoods in California. He has his eyes set on some land that has been
homesteaded by a colony of Quakers. Needless to say, the Quakers are none too happy about this because
removing the trees would seriously interfere with their worship services, which are held outdoors.
They attempt to try to resolve the matter peacefully by persuading him not to take down the giant
trees.
Unfortunately for Fallon he has his other problems in addition to his tiff with the Quakers over the
redwoods. In order to come out ahead he forms an alliance he might never have thought of making
otherwise. Meanwhile, he also finds himself falling in love with none other than one of the Quakers he
is battling. It's the lovely Alicia Chadwick as portrayed by Eve Miller. Guys might be interested to note that Miller apparently appeared as a Playmate of the Month not long after this film
was released.
Everyone will find something to love in this action western. Picturesque scenes of the beautiful
California outdoors as well as a charming love story that will stay with you long after the final
credits roll off the screen. Don’t be mislead, there are also plenty of action shots to go
around, revealing just how great Kirk Douglas can be as an action hero.
McLintok
Review
For those who are big John Wayne fans, you won’t want to miss this one. This film marks Wayne’s foray back into production after The Alamo. The "Duke" plays George Washington McLintock, who has worked to build an empire out in the wilderness while fighting off Indians and at the same time working to earn their respect. He has been a timber baron, miner and cattle king and has now had a town named after him, which he pretty much rules. He helps those who need it and isn’t afraid to take his fists to those who don’t measure up to his own standard of conduct. Since his wife (played by Maureen O’Hara) left him two years previously because she suspected he was cheating on her, he has been living the single life on his ranch. McLintock hires a cook to work on his ranch. She happens to be a beautiful widow.
He also welcomes her two children onto his ranch at the same time. This leads to a hilarious and adventuresome round of action involving an Indian attack, brawls and gunfire as well as the return of the long absent Mrs. McLintock, claiming she wants a divorce and custody of her daughter Becky. As his wife continues to demand a divorce, the tough McLintock finds he has no choice but to duke it out with her. Meanwhile, their daughter is falling in love with the new housekeeper’s son. This wildly funny comedy is loosely based as a Western adaptation of “The Taming of the Shrew.”
As some of John Wayne’s movies tend to go, this film tends to lean toward the side of being too overtly political, making a few digs at big government (as if it didn't deserve them); including a swipe at Senator Hubert H. Humprhey, who at the time, was a liberal symbol of government. The film could certainly have done with less musical numbers and the script could have used a few touch ups but it is amusing enough in it’s own right.
It Can Be Done Amigo (Si può fare... amigo)
Review
If you’re a fan of westerns, you’re going to love this one. The tale involves a man by the name
of Ivan Coburn, portrayed by Spencer, who as it would happen, has deflowered the wrong woman. The girl
turns out to be the sister of a notorious gunman named Sonny, portrayed by legendary Jack Palance.
Initially Sonny will have nothing less than Coburn married to his sister to remedy her situation and prevent her from being shamed in the community. Quickly changing his mind, Sonny then decides that it would be better if he just killed Coburn instead.
Throughout the entire conflict between Sonny and Coburn, Coburn finds himself taking care of a
boy named Chip Anderson who has had the unfortunate luck of losing his uncle in a recent gun fight.
One of the best things about this movie is that there are plenty of amusing one-liners scattered
throughout, giving viewers plenty of opportunity to laugh. See if you can detect Sonny's changing accent going from southeastern US to Mexican to Chicago gangland. This is a true classic spaghetti western that
you will enjoy watching time and time again.
Dead Aim
Review
If you’re a fan of spaghetti westerns, you’ll be sure to love this one. The story starts off
with a kid by the name of Lucky Johnny who is rescued from a rattlesnake bite by an undertaker. Well,
if that’s not lucky, what is? The undertaker takes Lucky Johnny in and the boy helps him with his
funeral business until between the two of them they decide they should try to do better for themselves
and go after their own fortune. A couple of different subplots are introduced involving two stage
robbers who haven’t been able to make it big as well as a cavalryman who has found himself falling
victim to some unscrupulous bounty hunters.
You’ll find some absolutely amazing cinematography in this film as well as an excellent musical
score. This is a movie that could easily be watched again and again, especially with the intriguing
subplot and great characterization. Even if you’re not a huge fan of spaghetti westerns the plot and
musical score will still keep you interested all the way to the end.
Gods Gun
Review
This is absolutely one of the most unique Westerns probably ever printed on film. It’s no doubt a spaghetti western type of film but what makes it really unique is that it was filmed in Israel and as there probably aren’t a lot of those, this film is really worth watching. The angle of the film is produced in such a way that despite the fact it wasn’t filmed in a typical western locale, it will appeal to most Western fans.
The main character is duel roll. A preacher (portrayed by Van Cleef) who is shot down by a gang led by Palance. There is a witness to the event and after seeing the horrible crime he can’t help but travel to Mexico for the purpose of finding the twin brother of the preacher who was murdered. The twin brother is an excellent gunman who had turned from his former life and made a promise to never use his gun for killing again. After hearing about his brother, the gunman (also played by Van Cleef) decides he must avenge his brother’s death. He vows he will try to do it without shooting the gang.
This is definitely a film worth seeing, especially if you like this particular genre of Western. Van Cleef does an excellent job of portraying the twin brother and Palance’s performance is every bit what you would expect it to be.
Gone With The West
Review
James Caan, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Stefanie Powers star in this film. Aldo Ray plays the notorious character in town who has stolen Caan’s character’s cattle and then molested the character portrayed by Stefanie Powers, Little Moon. Powers and Caan then attempt to exact revenge on the bad guy (portrayed by Ray) by destroying the guy’s town. Like most films of this type there is plenty of gunfighting and Sammy Davis, Jr. plays a gunslinger who is hired by Ray. One interesting fact that many viewers might not be aware of is that there was no special training needed or even a stand-in required for those exciting scenes with Sammy Davis, Jr.
In ‘real’ life he was already a fairly quick draw. Some reports, in fact, indicate that he might have been one of the fastest around during this time period. Be sure to watch him close during the fight scenes and you’ll see that it’s really him and not a stunt man.
With a cast of big names and plenty of gun fights along with comedic relief, this is one film you will absolutely love. The first rate cast really brings a lot to this film. You’ll be on the veritable edge of your seat as the main characters attempt to exact revenge for the wrong that has been done to them. Without giving too much away and spoiling the ending, you will definitely feel everything turned out just the way it was supposed to by the end.
They Call Me Trinity
Review
A drifter named Trinity (played by Terrence Hill) finds himself with nothing much better to do than to wander around the countryside with his horse. He drifts into a particular town where his brother Bambino (portrayed by Bud Spencer) just happens to be the sheriff. His brother has a particular dislike for him, even going so far as to hate him because Trinity appears to pretty much be a troublemaker and that just doesn’t set well with his Sheriff’s conscience.
So, he attempts to get his brother to leave town by pulling out all of the stops. Unfortunately for him, Trinity stumbles upon the fact that his brother isn’t actually the sheriff. It turns out that Bambino shot the real sheriff and took his badge, believing the real sheriff is dead.
Trinity decides that he will try to blackmail his brother with this knowledge but Bambino doesn’t seem to care. This is because a gangster by the nickname the Major is in town and is of a mind to kill a certain group of Mormon settlers to get them out of a section of valley land that he wants for himself. Bambino finds he needs help from his brother to prevent the gangers from committing the deed while at the same time taking the gangster’s stallions.
If you like comedy and western genre films, you’ll love this movie. It expertly combines comedy and a western backdrop. Just in case you’re interested, there is also a sequel to this movie, "Trinity is Still My Name."
Yuma
Review
First of all it should be noted that this fabulous film was produced by Aaron Spelling and as we all know the late Mr. Spelling never did anything by halves and that includes Yuma. A U.S. Marshal named Dave Harmon (portrayed by Clint Walker) happens into Yuma, located in Arizona Territory, just in time to kill a man who turns out to be the brother of a local rancher. The rancher in question is somewhat of a bigwig in the local area.
Meanwhile another brother is taken into custody by Walker. As the film goes on, the remaining brother is killed by a villain during the night and the crime is pinned on Walker. After the rancher hears about the deaths of his brothers he hurries back into town from the trail ride he was on when the killings occurred. Of course, no self-respecting Western would be complete without a little romance. Even with all the commotion going on Walker finds time to romance the owner of a local hotel. In the end there is a huge showdown that delivers everything you would expect of a great western.
While there is plenty of action and adventure to satisfy male viewers, female viewers won’t find it hard at all to look at the rugged handsome face of Walker as he tries to bring everything to rights. This is one western that you’ll enjoy watching time and time again. A mild warning. Because there are some gunfights and violence, it’s not really a family type film.
Wildfire
Review
This is one of those westerns that definitely classifies as an oldie but goodie. Even thought it was originally released in 1945 it still holds a lot of entertainment value today. As do a lot of western films, this one involves horse rustling. The unique way the story is presented, however, is that the men who are really behind the horse rustling attempt to explain away the missing horses by blaming it on a particular wild horse known as Wildfire.
Happy Haye (portrayed by Bob Steele) and Alkali (portrayed by Sterling Holloway) find themselves in trouble when the leader of the horse rustling gang, Fanning (portrayed by John Miljan) target them shortly after their arrival. Alkali is shot and then Happy catches up with the outlaws. Unfortunately, they are released not too soon after by the judge. It goes from bad to worse when the judge then discharges the sheriff and tries to pin the rustling on none other than Happy himself.
Realizing there is a real problem going on here, Happy and the sheriff team up together and try to prove that Wildfire isn’t to blame for the rustling and unveil the real rustlers while clearing their own names at the same time.
There are a couple of well knowns in this film including Sarah Padden who plays Aunt Agatha. Eddie Dean portrays the sheriff. As an interesting note this was the first release by Screen Guild Productions and for a first release and a B release at that it is really quite good.
The Hanged Man
Review
In a Western that is sure to become a favorite, a gunfighter actually survives his own hanging. Afterwards he discovers he has the uncanny ability to read other people’s minds. As expected, things
start to become quite interesting. Since he has survived death, the gunfighter elects to keep the secret of his new powers to himself and try to help others instead.
All works out just fine until he runs into a young widow who is trying to hold onto her ranch and keep a ruthless land baron from taking it away from her. Faced with this kind of dilemma what will the hanged man do? Will he use his powers for good or evil?
Filled with plenty of suspense and action, you’ll be kept guessing until the very end in this fun, adventurous and romantic western. If you’re a big fan of gunslinger movies, you will love The Hanged Man, especially with the unique twist of the gunslinger’s special powers.
The Gun and the Pulpit
Review
In this exciting western a gunslinger runs across the body of a traveling minister who was killed during an ambush. The gunslinger, who is concerned about the posse following him, decides he will
take on the identity of the dead minister. Marjoe Gortner stars in this film as a quick on the draw gunfighter. He ends up hiding out in a small town after taking on the identity of the preacher. Deciding he will really put his all into his pose as a preacher, he uses his six-shooter to scare folks into church.
There are plenty of really funny scenes throughout this hilarious and adventurous western. Pamela Sue Martin, Estelle Parsons and Slim Pickens round out the fantastic cast of The Gun and the Pulpit.
With Daniel Petrie directing, this film can’t help but be a hit. This is a film you will love to pull out of your collection time and time again. You’ll be kept laughing and guessing from the
beginning to end wondering whether the gunslinger turned preacher will return to his old ways or turn in his gun for a pulpit and a Bible in the end. See it and find out!
Kid Vengeance
Review
A prospector who has had his gold stolen by an outlaw is determined to get back his gold. The prospector joins up with a young man who has been forced to deal with the murder of his parents and the kidnapping of his sister - all of which were perpetrated by the same outlaw.
The acting and direction in this film are absolutely superb. The badness of the bad guy comes across really well and you find yourself really despising him. The two main characters, Leif Garret and Jim Brown, set out on the trail of the outlaw together, determined to seek vengeance for all they have lost. There is no doubt about the fact there is some violence in this film, so it’s not for the faint of heart, but for those true die hard western fans, this is a terrific movie. This film does a great job of exploring the emotional turmoil of the young man at the center of the plot as well as the subject of vengeance.
Gun Fight at Red Sands
Review
Another in our long line of, if you love westerns, you won’t want to miss this film. A European sub-genre, it is a film you won’t soon forget. The film is action packed and the characters are quite colorful. The music is also quite memorable.
The gunfight scenes are simply fantastic and will leave you grabbing your seat till the outcome. You won’t want to miss this film. It will definitely be one you will want to see time and time again. If you like a twist on a classic favorite, you will love this film. There are some twists in the plot you won’t see coming that will really leave you surprised. Everything you love about westerns along with some new presentations make this film a must-see.
Webmaster note - Not quite Clint Eastwood and Sergio Leone, but as a predessor film, very representative of the European sub-genre of American Westerns. It should not disappoint.
Death Rides a Horse
Review
In this film, a young man by the name of Bill has witnessed the murder of his
family by robbers. The murder of his father and the brutal rape and subsequent murder
of his mother and older sister leave him mentally scarred and anguished. More than a
dozen years later, he plans to extract revenge. Leaving the love of his life, he
embarks on a journey that will ultimately change his life.
During his journey, he meets one of the robbers and discovers he was left by the
rest of the gang to take the blame for the crimes and served years on a chain gang.
As might be expected, sparks fly when the two first meet. However, they quickly
discover they can both meet their goals far easier if they team together. Bill is
still interested in getting revenge for his family while Van Cleef, the unfortunate
robber, wants to get back the money the rest of his former gang took from him.
Although their relationship is tenuous, the two learn to trust one another in a
grudging way. At one point they are even forced to break one another out of jail.
If you’re a western fan, you surely won’t want to miss this film. The surprise
ending will leave you awed. Van Cleef’s performance is truly one you won’t forget in
awhile. In particular, the well developed glimpses of the compassionate side of his
nature which his character tries to mask behind that of a hardened convict. Through
numerous scenes we see him actually acting as a father figure to the younger man,
doling out advice to the young man who is still consumed by anger and rage.
A plot twist provides a nice bit of surprise, keeping it from becoming a
stereotypical western revenge film.
Deadwood '76
Review
A young drifter is mistaken for Billy the Kid. Trouble ensues. When his shooting
ability becomes known, bets are hedged and the young man is forced to duel with
several high profile gunmen, including Wild Bill Hiccock. The young man
is really interested in mining for gold and makes friends with several Native
Americans along the way.
Deadwood ’76 proves to be a cut above many spaghetti westerns. Hall’s portrayal
of Billy May, the cowboy who is mistakenly sucked into a gunfighter life,
is excellent. There are also numerous side stories that will keep you riveted
including the revelation that May’s father is in fact an Indian chief.
This was the last film Arch Hall, Jr. made before leaving his acting career
behind to pursue a career in aviation. If you’re a fan of Hall, it is definitely
worth it to check out his last film.
China 9 Liberty 37
Review
This is a great movie that no true Western fan should miss. The plot twists around a retired gunfighter who is now a gold miner. When he refuses to sell his land to the railroad problems arise. A condemned gunman is given a last minute reprieve on one condition; he must murder the retired gunfighter/gold miner for the railway company.
After he is released and visits the intended victim he finds he can’t make himself commit the murder when he strikes up a strange friendship with his would-be target. Meanwhile, the miner’s wife has come on to the gunman. When the gunman leaves, she mistakenly thinks she has killed her husband in an argument and joins the gunman. What they don’t know is that the miner is still alive and fit to be tied. In a strange turn of events he partners with the very men who sought to have him killed in an effort to hunt down the miner’s wife and gunman.
One of the most memorable quotes in the film is delivered by the retired gunfighter/miner, Matthew Sebanek. "There ain’t no soft-hearted gunfighters."
Warren Oates does an excellent job in the portrayal of his character, taking you right along with the struggle he faces throughout the film. This is an action packed film that has been very well staged. You will be perched on the edge of your seat waiting for the big final showdown scene-which doesn’t disappoint in the least. A twist in the story’s resolution catches you totally by surprise, making this a very satisfying film.
Webmaster note - Quote from a review at IMDB "One of the few westerns where sex is the main motivator, a wonderful spaghetti western with Fabio Testi and Jenny Agutter, with Warren Oates and a rare performance by Sam Peckinpaugh. An important film in the work of Monte Hellman, quintessential 70's cult director, a man who has made more great films than Coppola yet remains mostly unknown in his home country."
Cry Blood Apache
Review
This is a movie with a plot that really delivers. You definitely won’t be disappointed. We have an Apache brave who is determined to extract revenge on a gang of killers who have brutalized his entire family. He is bent on tracking them down and wiping out every one. With each revenge killing he manages to utilize a new and inventive approach.
The backdrop of this film is nothing short of breathtaking, with most of the on location shooting done in the Sequoia National Forest in California as well as other scenes in Arizona. Unlike many Westerns, this film was shot completely outdoors. The cinematography is so spectacular you can practically feel the cold wind as it blows throughout the film and the dust that seems to linger.
The hero of the film is portrayed by Jody McCrea, who also produced the film. McCrea's character forms the fifth member of the gang who, instead of joining in with the rest as they extract brutality on the Indian family, develops some sympathy for the one female hostage the gang allows to live.
Western screen legend, Joel McCrea (father of the lead actor and producer) also makes a small appearance in the film.
This is definitely a great Western, you won’t want to miss. Not only are the characters interesting but their parts are well portrayed.
The Belle Starr Story
Review
This film is a rare jewel that shouldn’t be missed. One of the most unique qualities about it is that, unlike many Westerns, this film features a female lead.
The story begins over a game of poker between Belle and a bandit by the name of Larry Blackie. Bell is portrayed by Elsa Martinelli while Larry Blackie is portrayed by George Eastman. After Blackie wins all of Belle’s money he offers her a chance to win back her money with one more game. Since she has lost all of her money the only thing she has left to wager is her body. After throwing the game and tossing all of her best cards she is left at the mercy of Blackie. This leads to a somewhat incongruous relationship between the two.
One of the most interesting aspects of this film is the fact that it consists of two parts. One part reveals aspects of Belle’s past through flashbacks while the other part shows how Belle and Blackie attempt to rob a diamond transportation.
The first part of the film, shown in flashbacks is particularly engaging, revealing how Belle Starr came to be known as a bandit queen capable of out smoking, out riding, out shooting and usually out gambling any man who comes across her path in the Old West. The second half is action packed; keeping you welded to the edge of your seat. When their robbery plan goes awry Belle must rescue Blackie.
Jesse James Women
Review
In this exciting film, Jesse James (portrayed by Don Barry) heads for Mississippi from Missouri and immediately begins to charm all of the women he meets. His first conquest turns out to be a banker’s daughter. During their romantic interlude she actually helps him rob the bank after he promises to marry her.
His next love affair occurs with the proprietress of the local saloon. Between the two of them they manage to run her partner out of town and steal back her money as well as the partner’s. Unfortunately for the bar madam, Jesse James runs off with all of the loot.
Next he romances a saloon singer who manages to turn him into a target after conning him into a boxing match with a professional fighter. Even though he loses both the fight and his money, he manages to get everything back after he holds up both the fighter and the singer.
This is an exciting film, taking one twist after another that leaves you squirming on the edge of your seat.
Seven Alone
Review
Although this is a fictionalized account, this film is based on the real life adventures of the Sager family
who traveled west with a wagon train from Missouri to Oregon. Things are going well for the family until
the father dies after an Indian attack. Things really go down hill when, not long after that, the mother dies from pneumonia. At this point the leaders of the wagon train decide to send the children back East. The oldest son, John, has other ideas. Although he has always been thought of as lazy and even fairly worthless he decides to lead his younger siblings onward through the wilderness and complete the adventurous journey that their parents had begun.
The children, three boys, three girls and a young baby, must then find a way to make a new life for
themselves without the guidance and protection of their parents. Throughout the rest of the journey
they suffer through a series of problems and adventures including rapids, more Indians and traveling
through a snowy terrain as winter sets in.
If you’re a fan of western adventure films and looking for something reminiscent of Little House on the
Prairie this film is sure to leave you delighted.
This Man Can't Die
Review
An Italian Western, this film will leave you pasted to your seat. Guy Madison stars as a mercenary
who is acting as an undercover agent for the military in this very well handled western. The main
character of Martin Benson doesn’t make it home from the war. Instead he is working undercover and
has gained somewhat of a reputation as an outlaw.
Things begin to get really interesting when he is offered a large amount of gold in order to locate the
leader of a liquor and gun smuggling operation many of whose members he already assisted in
bringing down. Meanwhile members of the gang are out to get him, even targeting his family.
As time passes his parents are killed and his younger sister is raped. He and his brother then set out
to extract revenge, all the while, the remaining family members are continuing to be stalked by the
gang members. This is definitely one of the best Italian westerns around. If you enjoy this genre of
movie, you will be thrilled with this film. Guy Madison does an excellent job in the lead role.
Trinity and Sartana
Review
This is a great movie that no true Western fan should miss. Here we have two men who form a grudging partnership in order to cash in on some gold. Unfortunately, they fail to predict the amount of trouble it will cause for them and the results are brawls that are nothing short of comic. Fans of slap-stick spaghetti westerns (we don't have a separate category for this) will be delighted.
The backdrop of this film is nothing short of breathtaking. Unlike many other Westerns, which far too frequently focus on the violence of the Old West, this movie delivers a solid punch with a strong storyline and plenty of comedic relief moments. In addition, the cinematography is quite spectacular.
This is an action packed film that has been very well staged. You will be hog-tied to your seat waiting for the big final showdown scene-which doesn’t disappoint in the least. A twist in the story’s resolution catches you totally by surprise, making this a very satisfying film.
Mad Dog Morgan
Review
Western fans will be hung on the edge of their seats with this diehard western. (Can you really have a
"western" in Australia? Wouldn't that be more like a "southern"?) Nevertheless, we begin our story in the autumn of 1865 when a notorious desperado and bushranger Dan Morgan crosses the Murray River from New South Wales into Victoria in order to battle with the law for the last time. For the next 100 years what occurred remained a secret. This film delves into this fascinating tale, revealing the life and times of the rather extraordinary and romantic Australian villain Mad Dog Morgan.
Morgan is portrayed by the legendary Dennis Hooper during his ‘wilderness’ years; providing an excellent performance. His performance is assisted by a supporting cast of the cream of Australian acting including Jack Thompson. (Reviewers aside - ( you learn the most fascinating stuff reviewing movies.)
If you enjoy a gripping film based in truth and history, you need look no further than this classic film. This is another movie you will want to add to your collection and view time and time again.
Savage Guns
Review
This classic spaghetti western film reveals a ruthless and cruel bandit who has killed a tavern owner who ratted him out to the authorities. Unfortunately there was a witness to the murder and now this witness, Sam Wallach, realizes his life has changed forever. Things go from bad to worse after his brother is killed when he gets in the bandit’s way. Now Sam has sworn revenge and is out for blood.
While the film is quite dramatic there are also some wonderful comedic relief moments throughout. Robert Woods does a fine job portraying the role of Sam Wallach while Simonetta Vitelli (aka Simone Blondell) also portrays the role of Fanny the barmaid quite well.
The music score, by Lallo Gori, is nothing short of excellent. In fact, while the acting, story line and characterizations are all wonderful, the music score may be the highest-quality part of the movie, including skillful use of organ, guitar and trumpets in order to create emotion as well as suspense.
Rage at Dawn
Review
In this wonderful Western drama, a gang of brothers use the town of Seymour as their safe haven. They even pay off three corrupt town officials to make sure they remain undetected. Unfortunately for them, Peterson Detective Agency operative James Barlow (Randolph Scott) is sent in to clean up the gang.
He poses as an outlaw in order to gain the confidence of the town officials as well as the gang. Matters become even more complicated when Barlow develops feelings for the sister of the gang brothers, Laura. She reluctantly keeps house for the gang but it is only out of loyalty to family. Events begin to quickly heat up.
While the story of this film is interesting it is actually based in history and on the real life of some of the most famous outlaw bandits in the Old West. The Reno gang rode throughout several states and were the first train robbers to be recorded. Their deeds set the stage for many future gangs including the Doolin, James, Dalton and Younger gangs.
(Webmaster aside - I recently saw this film on Turner Classic Movies shown as part of their Randolph Scott day. In my early days, Scott was my favorite actor.)
Any Gun Can Play
Review
This movie is a tremendous amount of fun. The opening scene reveals a trio of men who have been dispatched to rob a train that is loaded with not only a gold shipment, but the cavalry as well. The gang manages to get away with the shipment of gold but this just marks the beginning of their troubles.
The viewer is taken on a wild ride throughout the rest of the film via a series of double crosses and triple crosses. A good dose of humor adds interest as well. Strong action scenes contribute to the sense of adventure.
Strong acting, directing and an interesting storyline keep this film moving right along to the end. If you are a fan of spaghetti westerns, this is one that you should not miss. It emulates all of the qualities of the great spaghetti westerns while still managing to retain some unique elements that will keep you hog tied to the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
This is a great film that any western fan should have in their collection. You will want to see it again and again. Overall, an excellent film.
Joshua
Review
A very simple, to the point western that is delightful in the fact that it is not overdone. The straight forward plot begins when a man's mother is murdered. What is a man to do but seek revenge on the scoundrels that perpetrated the deed? The title character is portrayed by Fred Williamson, who does an excellent job as a bounty hunter who is intent on getting revenge for the death of his mother.
The lead character has returned from the Civil War. Unfortunately, a gang of outlaws has stopped at the farm where his mother works. When a fight breaks out, she is killed. The farmer's wife is kidnapped and raped along the way. To complicate matters, she finds herself suddenly feeling aligned with the quintet of outlaws who have kidnapped and raped her.
The entire film has a somewhat gritty Italian feel to it. The starkness of the film suits the plot quite well as Williamson systematically sets out to kill each one of the five men who murdered his mother. Overall, Williamson does an excellent job.
Apache Blood
Review
Fans of westerns will not want to miss this movie. Filled with excitement, action, adventure and true Old West style, this is a film that will keep you hob-nailed to the edge of your seat. The movie begins as a young Indian brave manages to survive a massacre of his entire tribe by the U.S. Army. He sets out to extract revenge for the death of his family and friends and ends up encountering and even confronting a cavalry scout in the middle of the desert.
Solid acting, excellent direction and brilliant cinematography add to a film that is quite memorable. While the film contains many elements that are similar to other films in the same genre, this film does take a step away and contains many unique elements that set it apart from other classic westerns.
Boot Hill
Review
In one of the most entertaining movies ever produced, a group of claim jumpers manage to control an entire mining town. Eventually one of the people in the small mining town becomes tired of the situation and requests the help of his friend, Cat Stevens. Stevens is able to make his way into town without notice using the guise of a traveling circus.
Direction in this film is second to none. Combined with unique and interesting editing the final result is a film that is like no other. The movie was originally conceived as one in a loose trilogy by director Colizzi.
Humor is mixed in well with the rather serious scenes in the film to create a movie that will keep you hopping on the edge of your seat.
If you are a western fan but have grown tired of cookie cutter films you will not want to miss this film. It will certainly be a movie you will want to add to your collection and see time and time again.
Under California Stars
Review
A classic film with big name stars that is certain to ring true with as much authentic entertainment today as it did when it was first produced. Starring the much beloved Roy Rogers and his multi-talented horse Trigger. (Reviewer aside - We have a creature on my planet that is similar to your horse, but it has six legs and one horn.)Roy plays himself in the role and finds himself in search of his horse, which has been kidnapped.
Of course, no Roy Rogers film would be complete without singing and there is plenty to appreciate in this classic film. Dubbed "King of the Cowboys" Rogers still finds plenty of time to search out the low down dirty rascals who had the gall to kidnap Trigger. After hatching a rather ingenious plan with the local sheriff to retrieve Trigger, there is naturally some action to pay tribute to the film's reputation as a western. Shot almost completely on location, this is a rare and unique film that is certain to delight.
If you are a Roy Rogers fan you certainly will not want to miss this film. True fans will definitely want to add it to their movie collection to watch over and over.
Bells of San Angelo
Review
An excellent film starring the much beloved Roy Rogers (Did I already say that in the last review? Well, as they say, you can never get too much of a good thing). Done in Trucolor this is an early example of the Republic films featuring Roy as himself portraying the role of a border investigator who is trailing a silver smuggling operation. He is assisted by his rather comedic sidekick Andy Devine. Interestingly Devine portrays Sheriff Cookie Bullfincher who is later revealed to have an alter ego as George Wallingford Lancaster.
The beautiful Dale Evans also stars in the film, portraying the role of a western novelist by the name of Lee Madison. The byplay between her character and Roy makes for several amusing scenes.
After Roy, Lee and Cookie discover the phony mine that has been serving as a front for the smuggling operation, trouble really begins to take place. What western would be complete without a kidnapping? Lee Madison is taken hostage by the leader of the gang and Trigger must ride to the rescue.
Overall, a highly entertaining film full of comedy as well as action and the perfect opportunity to see excellent performances by both Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.
White Comanche
Review
William Shatner portrays half-breed twin brothers. Johnny Moon is the somewhat misunderstood cowpoke while Notah Moon is the savage killer. This sets the scene for some confusion as the two brothers are naturally mistaken for one another on more than one occasion. To the surprise of many, Shatner managed to pull off the part of the twin brothers with excellence.
Overall, this is a very nice film with a good many surprises in store. If you are a western fan, or, even if you are a fan of William Shatner and you are interested in seeing him in a role that is somewhat different than the space roles to which we have all grown accustomed, this film is an excellent find.
Filled with plenty of dramatic moments as well as some that are laugh out loud funny, this is a film that you just may have to watch more than once.
Kentucky Rifle
Review
In this spellbinding western, a man escorting a wagon load of rifles through hostile Indian territory must figure out a way to make it through without losing his load of Kentucky rifles to the Indians. He is at a distinct disadvantage since the Indians already know he is passing through and plan to give him an ultimatum, either forfeit the rifles or his life.
Although the plot of this film is rather simple it works quite well. Full of excellent action scenes, this is a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Although action is a large focus of the film, the storyline stands on its own quite well.
The decisions that two of the main characters are forced to make are intriguing and one of the most defining elements of the film. If you are a western film buff, you will certainly love this film and will want to add it to your collection.
Mohawk
Review
Juggling more than one woman at a time can be tricky and make for some interesting drama. An artist who has taken a job in a remote army post attempts to juggle his fiancée who has arrived from the east, the storekeeper's daughter and an Indian Chief's daughter. He finds out the hard way just how difficult it can be to keep three women happy.
Unfortunately, there is even more trouble brewing. After a rather vengeful settler stirs up trouble between the local Indians and the army, it looks as though war might erupt. The Mohawk chief attempts to keep trouble down. This becomes increasingly difficult as an impatient brave goads other warriors into raiding the fort in an attempt to steal guns.
Set in 1790, this film is a complete western through and through. The action in this film will keep you on your toes from the beginning to the end. A nice pace keeps the film moving along. Director Kurt Neumann directed with his well known skill while the cast provide excellent portrayals of the rather interesting characters. A well developed storyline and a historical treatment that is quite interesting add to this well rounded film.
The Sundowners
Review
An exceptional western, this movie was filmed on location in Technicolor and features top actors Robert Preston and Robert Sterling portraying the main roles while John Barrymore Jr., Cathy Downs, John Litel and Chill Wills provide excellent support. A lot of effort was obviously put into the production of this film, especially considering the use of Technicolor.
In its day the film was produced on a budget. That is not evidenced by the quality of the film. The movie is nicely paced and includes a surprise revelation toward the end that provides a nice ending to the film.
The Texas landscape in which the film was shot provides a beautiful backdrop for the film. Action packed and full of drama, this classic western is a film you will want to see time and time again. If you are western fan, you will certainly want to add this film to your collection.
Vengeance Valley
Review
In this fabulous film, a cattle baron has taken in an orphaned boy and raised him as his own. Unfortunately, his own son has come to resent the boy and as the two become older the resentment becomes worse. In an attempt to get his brother out of the way so that he can take over his father's empire all by himself, the cattle baron's son frames his stepbrother for fathering a child that in reality is his own.
The highly talented Richard Thorpe directed this film while Burt Lancaster appears in his first western. Taking a step away from the usual drama, this is not your usual western. The film features excellent cinematography as it was filmed on location, not on a sound stage, just outside Canyon City, Colorado. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. John Ireland, Joanne Dru, Hugh O'Brian and Carleton Carpenter all provide excellent supporting roles.
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