King Monkey is summoned to heaven by the Jade Emperor. However, his mischievous tendencies lead him to eat all the heavenly peaches, gaining immortality. Expelled to Earth, alongside two of the Emperor's disgraced officials, Monkey is encased in a mountain as punishment by Buddha, whilst one official is made a pig spirit (Pigsy) and the other a water spirit (Sandy). Years later, the Buddhist boy priest, Tripitaka, frees Monkey and recruits him alongside the other two as his disciples. Their journey is to reach India from China to fetch the Buddhist scriptures to bring peace to the people of the world. Monkey is a Japanese program that adapts from the Chinese novel 'Journey to the West' by Wu Cheng'en, which received an English dub for release in the UK, which the show is probably most known for. I was introduced to the show by my Mum and a co-worker, who equally believed it to be right up my street as a fan of strange cult classics. Naturally, they were absolutely right. Nothing could be more peculiar than a stone ape born from an egg on a mountaintop who battles demons, and I was all for it. I was an instant fan from the first episode, which alone was unlike anything I had experienced before. Equally, as a whole, the series astounded me with a whole plethora of attributes that made the programme feel uniquely special. The overflowing care and work put into the project is ever present, featured through outstanding ambitious special effects, flashy and exceedingly well-choreographed action and a stellar cast of energetic actors. Undoubtedly, my favourite member of the group is Monkey, the Great Sage and Equal of Heaven. His mischievous nature always makes him a delight to watch, using his cheek on both his friends and foes. He is equipped with a great many skills, knowing every magic trick under the sun, though his coolest abilities consisted of his magic wishing staff that could grow and shrink, along with his iconic skill of summoning his pink cloud to ride on. Some of his magic is quite bizarre, however, like turning into a wasp and turning his chest hair into an army of monkeys. Monkey, also partakes in countless fights (usually starting them), which show off his impressive techniques and the exquisite choreography that never ceases to get you pumped with adrenaline. Sandy, once commander of the heavenly host, now turned cannibal water spirit, brings a lot of knowledge and wit to the group delivering probably some of the funniest quips in the show. Pigsy, once marshal of the heavenly host turned pig spirit, is frequently fixated on eating, being lazy and looking for women, though when it counts, he's a helpful asset. Tripitaka is the boy priest sent on the holy pilgrimage who is kindhearted, always doing what's right and keeping the group in check. Finally, there is also the dragon/horse/man, Yu Lung, which is a peculiar statement, sure to confuse nonviewers. Whilst perhaps a somewhat straightforward story of travelling from point A to B, this journey is riddled with countless and widely varying stories that challenge our intrepid travellers. Waves of demons cause a whole manner of problems for our group, coming in all sorts of forms with special powers. Each requires different approaches from some being fought and thwarted to others reconciled and redeemed. Whilst there is a great deal of action and ecstatic comedy, the show holds an equal amount of heart, which is acted tremendously by the superb cast. The show would also not nearly be as popular if it wasn't for the phenomenal soundtrack by Godiego, who brings such lively tracks to the vigorous fight scenes, especially the theme song 'Monkey Magic' which is unnaturally catchy. Interestingly 13 episodes were never originally dubbed, being deemed too dark, featuring very mature themes, though eventually receiving a dub in 2004, making all episodes available. Overall, I had a blast with Monkey. I truthfully didn't expect to be so engrossed in it that once I'd started, I couldn't stop. I adored the effects, which were so spectacular for its time, to the unbelievable action and fantastic delivery of the actors and dubbing voice actors. An extraordinary cult classic deserving of far more recognition.
Seasons & Episodes: 2 Seasons - 52 Episodes
Creators: Wu Cheng'en, Hirokazu Fuse, Motomu Furuta, James Miki ...
After his accidental trip to 1955, Marty McFly returns to his own time only to find himself travelling once again with his friend Doc Brown to the year 2015 to straighten out a family problem. However, when the two return home to 1985, they soon discover someone has tampered with time to produce a nightmarish Hill Valley. Their only chance to restore their original time is to return to 1955 to set things right. Following the immediate events of Back to the Future (1985) we pick up during the literal final moments with the iconic 'cliffhanger' sequence. Originally meant as a joke scene to end the film, it soon became the plot for the sequel, continuing the adventure with a journey into the future. Naturally, this was quite the selling point and an intrigue factor for the movie, which was for many of us, an exciting premise. Seeing what the makers imagined a future 2015 could be like from the 80's perspective was fascinating. Of course, we have now long since passed that 'futuristic' year, so it's now equally fun to point out all sorts of details, like what did and didn't come true. My favourite additions from the future setting were the new instalments to the DeLorean like its ability to fly when the wheels turn out under the vehicle. It is still one of the coolest features of the car that complements its science fiction apparel. Equally making an impressive introduction was the hoverboard, which was a superb feature, especially during the chase scenes that showed off some impressively realistic effects. I still can't believe we haven't acquired such technology yet. For the sequel most of the cast reprised their roles although we notably see the recast of Jennifer, now played by Elisabeth Shue. She was perfectly fine in the role despite having little to do for the remainder of the film following the opening. Also, Crispin Glover didn't return as George McFly, so changes were made that I ultimately feel made the plot stronger, though still a shame he couldn't appear. Otherwise, the returning cast continued to excel in their respective roles, further developing their characters and in many cases, getting the chance to explore their range as multiple variations of their characters as well as others. Both Marty and Doc remain the stand-out highlights in this picture and it was terrific getting to see them both go on their first mission together through time. As a kid, Part II was my absolute favourite. Whilst I loved the whole future opening, what captivated me most was the later events when the team return to 1985. It was here the tone shifts much darker with the realisation of being in an alternate timeline. Something about the hellhole Hill Valley storyline had younger me hooked, seeing the consequences of time travel in the wrong hands and just how scarily things could drastically change was gripping. Of course, having Biff as the main villain was fitting, but it was certainly crazy, although not unexpected, seeing him go from the comedically stupid bully into a malicious killer, becoming one of the scariest villains in movie history (a real testament to Tom Wilson's range). Realising the only way to save Hill Valley is to undo the damage by Biff from the future by going back into the past to fix the problem. It was here the movie took its time travel escapades to the extreme, sending us back to the events of the first film in 1955, where our duo had to avoid their previous selves. Whilst one could see it as a cheap move, the execution was brilliant. I'll never get tired of Marty avoiding his other self continuously at the dance, like having to sneak overhead amidst his playing 'Johnny B. Goode' on stage. There are plenty of phenomenal moments the pair share on their secretive mercy mission full of intense high-stakes moments. Overall, Part II takes the adventure to new heights, continuing the story, showing us new destinations and mixing in with the prior film. Everyone involved continued to bring their A-game across the board and delivered a sensational sequel. I sure adored this entry and have fond memories of it, loving the exploration of a darker tone for the middle act, plus the ending was truly astonishing. For the exciting conclusion, check out Back to the Future Part III (1990) with a journey into the Old West.
Robin of Loxley is chosen by the mystical Herne the Hunter to become his 'son' and champion the oppressed. Gathering a band of comrades around him he fights a guerilla campaign against their Norman dictators, particularly the Sheriff of Nottingham and his deputy, Guy of Gisburne. Robin of Sherwood is a show that takes the classic tale we all know and reimagines it, interweaving it with atmospheric mysticism. At its core, it holds a much more supernatural presence when compared with other interpretations of the myth. I was certainly intrigued by this choice, which only grew exponentially with each episode that delved into it further. It was undoubtedly a superb idea to incorporate it within such a rich story, whilst managing to equally share in historical accuracy. Alongside the magical aspects of the show, I was equally invested in the focus on developing intricate backstories for its characters. Naturally, being a series would give each member of the loveable outlaw group the time to grow and be thoroughly explored over its hour-long episodic adventures. Of course, we know the characters from the tale, but I really appreciated that this show gave us deeper looks into these already beloved figures, allowing us to grow closer to these versions. I would go as far as to say that this variation of the group of outlaws is my favourite of any Robin Hood adaptation. Michael Praed was a true stand-out as the titular rebel leader Robin, who was perfectly cast alongside Judi Trott's Marion, who is stunningly beautiful and becomes a skilled fighter upon joining the band. The rest of the crew, of course, features Little John a once-bewitched giant who loves to show off his strength and have a laugh, Will Scarlet is the grumpy fighter who loves nothing more than to get in the thick of the action, Friar Tuck watches out for the Lady Marion and holds the team together through their darkest moments, Much is Robin's foster brother a bumbling fighter and lookout and finally, Nasir a Saracen professional assassin freed from an equal spell like John. These depictions of the classic and new characters were fantastically acted by their respective actors and I loved seeing the formation of this unlikely unity of outsiders as well as their later adventures. Guiding them on their quests, is Herne the Hunter, the mystical forest-dwelling spirit who instructs Robin in leading his group in favour of returning peace to the land. The third and final season saw the replacement of Praed's Robin with Jason Connery as Robin of Huntington, though brief, his performance was not remotely on par with Praed and wasn't as favoured by fans. Opposing our heroic band is the Sherrif of Nottingham, Robert De Rainault a ruthless and harsh ruler who seeks the ultimate demise of Robin and his band, caring only for further power and riches. He commands Sir Guy of Gisburne who equally shares his sentiment of the rebels and is frequently pinned against Robin on countless episodes though always failing to capture the outlaw. The Sherrif and Gisburne were easily the highlight of the series and utterly phenomenal villains. You can't help but love them. I am sent to hysterical laughter whenever the Sherrif loses his temper with Gisburne as his performance takes on a theatre-like presence. Another highlight of the series was the action. There are some envigorating duels scattered throughout the show with so many flashy sword fights (mainly delivered by Nasir) to bow and arrow standoffs. There is plenty of exciting action to captivate viewers over the countless breathtaking on-location sets like the towering lush green forests. The final component to this shows magnificence is the music by Clannad. Their mixture of folk-based sounds, harmonies and synth make for a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that is inimitable, which fits the series perfectly as the equal mixture of old and 'modern'. Overall, Robin of Sherwood is my absolute favourite depiction of the Robin Hood legend. It has so many exceptional qualities from the cast, characters, music, action and stories that make it such a delight. It has received a steady fan base who revere it extensively. I heartedly recommend this to all fantasy and Robin Hood enthusiasts.
Theorising that one could time travel within his own lifetime, Dr. Sam Beckett stepped into the Quantum Leap Accelerator and vanished. He awoke and found himself trapped in the past, facing mirror images that were not his own and driven by an unknown force to change history for the better. His only guide on this journey is Al, an observer from his own time, who appears in the form of a hologram that only Sam can see and hear. And so Dr. Beckett finds himself leaping from life to life, striving to put right what once went wrong, and hoping each time that his next leap will be the leap home. Quantum Leap is an exceptionally creative series, which built such a limitless potential premise. A time-travelling scientist who becomes random people of the past with a problem (or has the potential to help with someone else's issue), which he tries to put right. I was instantly sold on the show from its time travel aspect and matched with the idea of someone jumping into other people's lives to change history was a fascinating concept. We follow Sam Beckett, the man behind the Quantum Leap project, who upon activating is now confined to leaping between lives until he can make his way home. Throughout these travels he finds himself hurtled into a vast array of peculiar predicaments, becoming people of any profession, age, colour, culture, religion, background and even the opposite sex. It opens the floodgates of possibilities as he is thrown into situations he couldn't have comprehended or prepared for. From a test pilot, priest, singer, boxer, hit man, archaeologist, reporter, secretary, vet, chauffer, detective, magician, stuntman to a DJ, the list goes on as to the many special situations Sam will find himself leading. I especially love how with each leap Sam's reflections aren't his own, but those he has become since after all it's their body he is in. The best part of this detail would be during the end of an episode where he leaps and we get a peek into the next adventure. It led to plenty of intriguing cliffhangers, leaving viewers to theorise what wacky situation would follow from the snippet of his new life. Aiding Sam in these difficult tasks is Al, a friend from the 'present day' who can communicate with Sam by means of a hologram only he can witness. By far, Al is my favourite character mainly due to his comic relief and his fashionable dress sense. I equally love the effects used as he passes through objects or people due to his holographic state, which was both funny and useful in the situations at hand. Despite being a hologram and viewable to only Sam, there is a small set of occasions where other people could see him (mainly little children and animals), which delivered some highlight moments in the series. He has Sam's back through all his hardships and uses his gadgets to communicate with Ziggy (a computer A.I. built by Sam to run the project) to access history records as well as theorise how best to guide Sam to accomplish his task. However, Al doesn't always have the stomach for some of the leaps especially being very superstitious, scaring easily when things turn spooky. Their relationship was a stand-out element to the series, because whilst they may have very contrasting personalities and views they care deeply about one another, working together through thick and thin. Personally, I found the earlier part of the show to be its best particularly the first season, which explored the potential of the show and delivered some poignant character-driven stories that would carry onward to the rest of the series. The later seasons would feature some ambitious and unusual episodes that were quite interesting but none more so than its finale entry. Despite being somewhat controversial it gives the series a definitive conclusion that many shows of the time wouldn't have usually gotten. Overall, Quantum Leap is yet another quality series from the 80s and 90s. It delights in transporting us, alongside Sam, into a wide variety of stories and adventures with each episode. Its ability to take us through different decades and see into a plethora of lives is as equally fascinating as entertaining. I highly recommend this unique classic to all TV enthusiasts.
When teenagers Mike and Debbie see a comet crash outside their sleepy small town, they investigate and discover a pack of murderous aliens who look very much like circus clowns. They try to warn the local authorities, but everyone assumes their story is a prank. It's not until they kidnap Debbie that Mike decides it's up to him to stop the clowns' bloody rampage. One of the last things I ever expected was to be blown away by a movie based around clowns (or, in this case Klowns) from space causing mayhem and yet, I was. Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a truly bizarre film that, whilst has an evident low budget, being listed under the B movie persona, it manages to rise above, delivering a strangely fantastic product. It is a cult classic that has since risen in popularity almost surpassing such a title. With plenty of merchandise and now a video game, this movie continues to have an impact on people to this day. I'm sure plenty of people read the title and scoffed at the absurdity. Well, I should know, I too thought this movie would be pure stupid and, whilst it is somewhat, it is also surprisingly brilliant. Throughout the film, I was captivated by the level of creativity on display. It is obvious the people behind this flick went above and beyond, finding a way around their budget limitations to deliver a spectacular-looking movie. Simply looking at the Klowns themselves, the level of detail and practicality of the costumes is truly admirable. It would have been so easy to paint people's faces and leave it at that but they went out of their way to make those phenomenal outfits and it pays off beacuase their look is one of the greatest highlights of this film. We open with a scene that presumably pays homage to classic 50s sci-fi horrors with a comet shooting overhead with young adults taking notice, like in The Blob (1958), which, of course turns out to be an alien craft. The couple who investigate are Mike and his girlfriend Debbie, who are drawn into this dangerous adventure when they enter a mysterious circus Big Top, which is right where the 'comet' should've landed. It turns out this is not a regular circus but the craft of beings who appear as Earth clowns that actually have a sinister purpose. Upon discovering the truth about these creatures with razor sharp teeth and their harvesting of people in pink cotton candy cocoons they head for town whilst the Klowns follow in hot pursuit. Whilst the pair attempt to convince the disbelieving Sheriff Mooney, who thinks its all a prank, the Klowns begin abducting and terrorising the town in a series of hijinks. Whilst it does have its horror aspects and moments, I personally found more of the comedy elements shining through, especially with the Klowns. They're unironically and unintentially hilarious as they cause mischief and, well, kill people. From driving invisible cars, running other cars off the road to starting fights with a bike gang or trying out products in a store and not to mention their many wacky gadgets. My favourite, probably had to be the use of a balloon they turn into a dog that leads them to their targets. I mean thats just unbelievably creative. Luckily, the couple were able to sway Dave Hanson, a police officer (and ex-boyfriend to Debbie), who at first thought it too was a prank until he saw one in action, realising what a threat they are. Despite their clear jealousy over Debbie, Mike and Dave work together as a formidable duo against the onslaught of Klowns, and the trio attempt to save what's left of their town. Overall, I am such a big fan of Killer Klowns. As previously stated, I never thought I would enjoy such a flick as much as I did, but it certainly earned it. The atmosphere is undeniably creepy but equally allowed for that hint of comedic implements which worked wonders. Perfectly marrying the two genres whilst allowing for a lick of sci-fi too for that additional kick. I was most impressed by the level of effort and detail, going out of their way to explain the world, even the clown situation, which is just proof of the additional care put in. I would heartedly recommend this cult classic to any fans of these genres as it will not disappoint to entertain, it further makes for some ideal Halloween season viewing.
Charles Bigelow's ex-wife, Margaret Newman, sets off to her rural home town, Centerville, for her mother's funeral leaving her daughter with Charles till her return. However, weeks go by with no news so Charles searches for her though surprisingly, nobody knows about her or any of her relatives. He instead is greeted by strange behaviours and goings on which are revealed to be the work of aliens. After contacting the FBI, who don't believe him, he tells his story to a tabloid; and suddenly, finds himself being chased by the aliens. Strange Invaders is yet another in the vast array of cult classics to come out of the 1980s that is unironically very entertaining. One of the most interesting aspects of this flick is its inspiration and clear homage to 50's sci-fi movies. You know the ones where a spaceship lands in a small town and monstrous creatures set forth to cause havoc. It is very reminiscent of one of these formulas much like Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956) where the aliens take our places, living among us, not knowing who to trust. Well this particular formula of an invasion where the aliens hide among us is brought back once again but a few new implements and ideas thrown in. The film opens with a truly beautiful spacecraft looming over head of a 1950s town that sends out smaller crafts resembling an iconic U.F.O. flying saucer design which begins unloading beings from another world. In a flash of blue lights, the townsfolk all suddenly vanish before cutting to a now modern-day 1983, which initially took me by surprise as I thought it would be fully set in the 50s. That is however partially the case, whilst the remainder of the film is solely modern-day, they do manage to retain a piece of the 50s setting with the town, Centerville that is almost frozen in time. The cars, the outfits, the technology and the buildings all belong in the past and yet remain the same even after 25 years, which was so cool, especially with the air of mystery with deserted streets and peculiar reactions from inhabitants. Exploring this anachronistic anomaly is our lead protagonist, Charles Bigelow, a university professor who stumbles upon this hidden occupation that he is forced to combat when they frequently attack and hunt him. With no one believing him, his search for answers leads him to a tabloid magazine holding an image of the same alien he saw. He informs the journalist, Betty Walker, about what happened in the town but to his dismay she is equally in disbelief not thinking the story she wrote with the image was real either. Things dramatically shift when the aliens equally begin stalking her in their efforts to find Charles. The pair team up to fight the creatures and come to the truth, exposing them and finding out what has happened to those who disappeared. However, Charles soon finds out that he has an unknown connection to these beings in their hunt for his daughter, Elizabeth. I really liked the relationship and growth built up between Charles and Betty as they become unlikely allies in a fight no one else knows is being fought. The aliens themselves are fascinating and have an impeccable design. The effects utilised when they unmask themselves from their masquerading human forms are simply phenomenal and remind me very much of V (TV Mini Series 1983) with the same effect. All the other effects from their laser-like firepower to their compressing people into glowing blue balls were simply a brilliant display of the magic of practical and digital effects of the time that I have come to adore. Plus the compression of people held some truly horrifying imagery that was serious nightmare fuel. I found their reasoning for fighting back after thinking the tabloid 'unmasking them' to the world was being taken seriously was a creative idea that was so intriguing to explore. Overall, Strange Invaders is a thrilling adventure that, whilst not holding such a big budget aesthetic, it still manages to be grand in other ways. It manages to pay homage to the sci-fi genre of the 50's whilst ultimately becoming its own thing taking on a new form that is still just as entertaining. I had a lot of fun and was constantly left in a state of intrigue. It may not be a flawless film but it is a cult classic gem to explore.
"Ray" is a shadowy, enigmatic character with no traceable past. People in trouble often come to him for help, since he has a lot of important and powerful contacts. He refuses to be paid for his services; however, those seeking his assistance must promise him a favour. Sometime in the future, Ray will come to collect on that favor usually to aid him in another case. Stingray is a show that quite frankly took me by surprise and left me completely amazed. As I have stated many times I am a huge fan of the 1980s so naturally this show came up on my radar and it was no exception to fueling my admiration for the decade. The show shares plenty of similarities or themes recognisable in other 80s products such as Knight Rider (TV Series 1982-1986) being a man with no identity with a sleek black car or The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987) being an aid for hire to those in need. All the while sharing similar elements Stingray holds its own identity, which it has undoubtedly ascertained over a plethora of attributes, starting with our lead. Despite having no official name, everyone refers to him as Ray on account of his car a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and even at times people simply call him Stingray. Ray is a man of many skills that he relies on to complete his mission, like for instance, his competence in martial arts, which he uses against the countless oppositions he faces. He is equally an exceptional driver and has a knack for hiding his true identity, especially from officials like police or other members of the government. Being so highly trained, Ray can adaptively overcome the struggles placed before him and persevere till he helps his clients with their unique problems. One of the most engaging aspects of the show was the problems Ray is called upon for. There are many varying situations throughout the show that Ray must overcome from rescuing kidnapped individuals, locating missing people, investigating strange activities, infiltrating dangerous areas, stopping murderers and so on. In most cases it sounds pretty by-the-mill type scenarios to get hired for however this show makes them feel fresh and different. Although intersected among those styles of episodes are ones that are so unique and out-of-the-box crazy that it hooks you immediately before anything is even laid out. From a young client flipping like a switch and trying to kill Ray at the start of an episode, an infected man dying at Ray's house dragging him into a near horrific virus outbreak or someone driving a similar Stingray model car killing Ray's potential clients pretending to be him. These episodes where someone doesn't even hire him and he is drawn unwillingly into a perilous mystery are utterly thrilling. Equally, some episodes take new approaches in their storytelling like an episode where an old lady novelist writes a story that perfectly details the events of Ray's current mission. Just as the episodes take a fresh and out-of-the-box approach, so does every other department in its construction. I am mainly referring to the style of directing and cinematography on display. Throughout this show I was frankly entranced by the experimental camera angles, shots and editing present that was like something I had never seen before. It felt different almost like a student testing and experimenting with their methods on a project and I was intrigued. I would sit in awe as the directors took me on a journey to new heights in filmmaking. Be that as it may, some pieces can be a bit disorienting but even they lended to this distinctive style. Finally, I have to talk about the theme tune and intro. It is phenomenal. It is extreme 80s at its finest with a catchy tune to boot and a fantastic lineup of flashy imagery to get you pumped. Overall, I absolutely adore Stingray and I simply can't believe how many people haven't seen or heard of it before. I was thoroughly gripped by this series and consider myself so fortunate to have stumbled upon it. Everything on display from Ray to the car, the intro, the fighting, the action, is all extremely cool and just awesome. Plus all 25 episodes of the show are available on YouTube for free, making for some ideal and accessible viewing thanks to FilmRise Television.
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