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We are kind of breaking the mold of Movie of the Week since this has already been posted. But in honor of Rudger Hauer (1944-2019) we suggest to watch, or re-watch, this 80's classic which delivers one of the best monologues in cinema history. The late 1970's and early 1980's were the golden age of sci-fi movies - Terminator, Star Wars, RoboCop, Superman, Aliens and Star Trek- Wrath of Khan, to name a few. But Blade Runner is my top choice for the golden age. The acting, imaginative storyline and soundtrack were all outstanding. The film is still just as visually unique now as it was when it came out. I have a Blade Runner poster on the wall in my home theater with the famous tag line: Man has made his match, now it is his problem. That ominous phrase warns the viewer that he will be in for a wild ride on the subject of AI. The cast is one of the best ever assembled in movie history, and is duly credited to the skill of Ridley Scott. My favorite character actor, M. Emmet Walsh, shines as the boozy, cornpone Police Captain Bryant. He is the perfect foil for Deckard, the tight-strung Blade Runner. The gals amp-up the voltage – wild-eyed, witchy Daryl Hannah and flamboyant, prissy, drop-dead gorgeous Sean Young – add style, beauty and grace. And finally, Rutger Hauer, as Roy Batty, brings to life one the most memorable and complex villains to grace the silver screen. It is his career best performance by a mile. Finally there is endless jibber-jabber on the internet about which is the best DVD version of the film. I prefer the Director’s Cut, without the voiceover. But that is a minor deal and you can go figure it out for yourself.
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 When family man Mike Sullivan (Tom Hanks) goes to work, he takes his hat, keys, wallet and a Colt 1911. When he expects a really hard day at the office he packs a takedown Tommy Gun with a drum magazine. It is very rare for a film to be filled with outstanding performances by multiple A-list actors. This is one of them. Equally amazing is that the actors are, more often than not, acting against type. The story is dark & grim, there is no humor, no romance, it is emotionally cold, none of the characters are good guys – doesn’t matter, this is a compelling movie with first class acting, skillful cinematography, unforgettable somber soundtrack, and an impressive full-scale production that re-creates gangster infested Chicago of the 1930’s.  This hit movie is a fun genre mix with plenty of laughs, and is one of the most quotable flicks in recent memory. A good opening scene gets right down to business with the Rules of Survival in Zombieland: "always check the back seat”, "use the double-tap”, "avoid public restrooms”, "cardio”, and so forth up to number thirty something. The plot comes down to a road trip movie where the essential travel items are a tactical shotgun with an extended magazine tube, and abundant ammo. The destination, L.A. Pacific Playland amusement park, is a perfect arena for slaughtering zombies to the tune of calliope music while enjoying a few thrill rides. This is a “must see” flick for Woody Harrelson fans. Also the road trip has several highlights and above all, there's a classic cameo scene by Bill Murray with a few of the best lines in the movie. Some movie trivia - Twinkies are called Submarinos in Mexico, a “3” painted on your car door is a tribute to NASCAR racer Dale Earnhardt. Underrated. |
AuthorWritten by Ben Clark. Copyright 2016-2023. All rights reserved. Archives
August 2023
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