Back to the Future Part III (1990)

Stranded in 1955, Marty McFly learns about the premature death of Doc Brown in 1885 and must travel back in time to save him. However, with no more fuel readily available for the DeLorean after his arrival, the two must figure out how to escape the Old West before Emmett is murdered. Part III is probably the most unique entry in this trilogy as it takes us on an escapade to the Wild West. It was an unusual choice but a genius one, that delivers the most fun adventure of all the outings. I always thoroughly enjoyed this movie as a kid but it has now grown far higher in my estimations in the trilogy (though I adore each tremendously). Filmed back to back with Part II allowed for far more cohesiveness between these later two instalments. It can best be seen through the plenty of foreshadowing details hinting at the Western setting in Part II that become more noticeable after a rewatch. Continuing directly from the events of Back to the Future Part II (1989), Marty is now stuck in the past, after both the Doc and DeLorean were accidentally sent to 1885. Naturally, the only person that can help him now is the Doc from 1955. I love that Marty catches him just moments after he sends back the other Marty during the events of Back to the Future (1985), which as you'd expect, shocks him. Using the letter left to Marty from 1885, the pair uncover the DeLorean in an abandoned mineshaft and repair it well enough so Marty can rescue his friend from his death at the hands of Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen. Unbeknownst to Marty, he would encounter plenty of trouble on his arrival, from jumping straight into the middle of a United States Cavalry pursuit of Indians, bumping into a bear to even mistakenly running afoul Buford and his gang. Thankfully Doc Brown is close at hand to save Marty from almost dying himself. I found this film delved further into the bond between Marty and Emmett, displaying more of that duty of care they share so strongly. They equally go through great character growth and development as they alter their futures throughout the adventure. It was pleasing to watch Marty have some heart-to-heart with his great-great-grandparents, learning more about his family he never knew. Although, I liked that this particular entry spends more time with Doc Brown, introducing him a love interest in the form of Clara Clayton, a lady whom he saves. When they each fall deeply for the other it causes Emmett to become torn with leaving, raising the stakes higher with the still impending shooting. I was delighted with the inclusion of newcomer Clara into the trio and relished in the relationship between her and Emmett. It was equally exciting seeing familiar faces of the previous films return as new characters as relatives of current-time people of Hill Valley. The most impressive was our villain of the story, Buford 'Mad Dog' Tannen, ancestor to Biff Tannen. He easily stole the show with his exceptional performance that was both hilarious and terrifying, like some of the other variants we've seen. Of course, being a Western there are plenty of references to other such films scattered throughout for fans of the genre to catch. I found this final piece to hold some of the best cinematography, with gorgeous landscape shots ever-present. My favourite, and the most visually iconic, is the shot of the horses towing the DeLorean across the desert. It is simply a phenomenal spectacle. Where this film truly shines is during the climax as the pair commandeer a train to use in their escape plan. The whole segment is pumped full of adrenaline and elevated with the heroic score of Alan Silvestri, which is so enthralling, you cannot sit still. Finally, the ending sure pulls at the heartstrings with some heartwarming moments to wrap up the stories in a neat bow. Overall, Part III is a fantastic conclusion to an outstanding trilogy. It manages to deliver an unparalleled adventure to its predecessors, filled with lighthearted comedy and bustling action. This trilogy is undeniably my all-time favourite comfort viewing, and I know many share in the sentiment. You won't find entertainment as imaginative and creative as this. For the closest thing to a fourth entry, check out Back to the Future: The Game (Video Game 2010-2015).

Runtime: 1h 58m

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Genre: Adventure / Comedy / Sci-fi / Western

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Quantum Leap (TV Series 1989-1993)

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.

Seasons & Episodes: 5 Seasons - 97 Episodes

Creator: Donald P. Bellisario

Genre: Action / Adventure / Drama / Mystery / Sci-fi

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Toy Soldiers (1991)

Billy Tepper is the leader of a group of rebellious boys at The Regis School. He has already been expelled, from three prominent private schools. Billy, all their friends and many other kids at the school have very influential and prominent if more law-abiding, parents. His best friend, Joey Trotta, for instance, is the son of the Head of the New York Mafia. When terrorist, Luis Cali's father is put in jail, he heads for the school to put the son of the judge in charge of the case under hostage, only to find he has been removed. However, once he realises who the parents of the rest are, he decides the entire Regis School would be an even better bargaining chip. Toy Soldiers was one of those movies that came as a pleasant surprise. I had no idea of what to expect going in as I had seen nothing or heard anything about it, but was extremely intrigued and I saw many recognisable cast members. I had gauged that this film followed a bit of a Die Hard (1988) inspired vibe which seemed quite heavy in the 90s for some reason with films like Under Siege (1992), The Rock (1996), Con Air (1997), etc and many Die Hard sequels of course. Each one took inspiration from the idea of terrorists taking over 'blank' for such and such. They all put a spin on the idea, mainly with a new location to take place on from a battleship to an island, plane or in this case, a school and instead of a massive action hero-style figure thrown into the mix of a conflict, it's a school boy. Whilst taking influence from the other products, Toy Soldiers manages to feel different. It takes on its own style becoming in itself unique, and I love it for that. We follow a group of boys from the exclusive school and their introduction best displays their nature going forward as they play pranks and graffiti over the 'Regis' on the sign to 'Rejects'. These kids are troublesome, like the risk and danger but especially have difficulty with any authority, which only sets them up for their inevitable fight against the imminent terrorist threat. One teacher, Dean Parker, however, takes it upon himself to accept the challenge of making sure these kids graduate despite their mischievous actions or misbehaviours, especially Billy. Billy is our main protagonist and the ring leader of the miscreants causing the most pranks and rebellious nature in the school. Whilst it has gotten him kicked out of several other schools and has caused him trouble in this one, this time it is the much-needed quality that will not only save his life but the other 91 hostages. Once the terrorist group arrives led by the ruthless Luis Cali, Billy is launched into a frantic battle for survival aided by his friends, Joey, Snuffy, Ricky and Hank. Each member of this group of friends really comes together, each bringing a special skill or talent to the mission at hand like, for example, Joey sketching the faces of the terrorists to deliver to the outside FBI, army forces and Dean who works endlessly to ensure the kids return to safety. Working together using their ingenuity they can accomplish leaps and bounds in many field areas from finding escape routes, synchronising their actions to distract guards and gathering information to deliver to the outside forces waiting at the border. Unfortunately, their efforts are prohibited by the strict rules laid out by Luis, especially the one where they must all return at the bell every hour to be counted and if one person is missing, five people will die. Luis and others don't mess around as their horrific tendencies carry over to their occupation of the school as they fight off opposing forces trying to get in as well as their treatment of students who fail at following orders. I love the idea of kids fighting back against an evil force occupying their school. They really get their time to shine and make fools of the attackers plus there are some incredible action sequences in the film to admire with some fantastic thrilling segments to boot. Overall, Toy Soldiers is a gripping story that is full of highs, lows, explosive action, riveting drama and friendship. The cast is phenomenal and their characters are equally exceptional. If you love Die Hard or simply looking for a rollercoaster of thrills, then this is one to hop on to, especially since the whole film is free on YouTube.

 

Runtime: 1h 51m

Director: Daniel Petrie Jr.

Genre: Action / Drama / Thriller

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Stay Tuned (1992)

Roy Knable, a couch potato, is a struggling Seattle plumbing salesman and former fencing athlete who spends most of his spare time watching hours of television. Roy's neglected wife, Helen, a senior vitamin product manager, resents the fact that they never do anything special or romantic together anymore. As husband and wife begin arguing they are sucked into a hellish television set and must survive the gauntlet of twisted versions of shows in which they find themselves. Stay Tuned was one of those pleasant surprises, which I stumbled upon by mere accident and was overwhelmingly captivated by. I happened to see this flick on streaming moments before it disappeared and I was treated to a marvellous adventure. Our story centres around a family on the verge of dysfunctionality and possible divorce as parents Roy and Helen cannot see eye to eye (quite literally) as Roy is glued to the television, paying more mind to it than anything else, especially Helen. Her efforts to go away and spend time together without the kids backfire at the words of no TV causing her to destroy the television unit. However, a mysterious man named Mr. Spike arrives offering him a new high-tech satellite dish system filled with 666 channels of programs one cannot view on any other networks. Roy, overly excited, takes Spike up on this offer with a free trial period, but little does he know that Mr. Spike is an emissary from hell prowling for additional souls to be obtained entertainingly. Both Roy and Helen end up being sucked in by the satellite, where they come face to face with extraordinary situations they must overcome. This place is a television world, called Hell Vision, where 'candidates' must attempt to survive satirical versions of sitcoms and movies. If they survive for 24 hours, they will be set free, however, if killed, their souls become the property of Satan. Once a part of this unnatural world, the movie takes off, displaying some phenomenal hellish takes on other productions, as well as featuring some unhinged 'products' in commercials. My favourite is a mask for annoying children on long car journeys called The Silencer of the Lambs. The Knables undergo all types of scenarios, from a game show called 'You Can't Win', a wrestling match against the beastly duo Mr. and Mrs. Gorgon to fending off wolves in 'Northern Overexposure'. During their bizarre experience, the couple are aided by Crowley, one of Spike's employees whom he banished to the world. Also helping them, are their two kids back home who work together to find a way of getting the parents out of this predicament. I found the whole idea of being sucked into a Television to be rather fun, especially with so many possibilities to explore. For instance, the animated segment where the parents turn into mice and battle with a robotic cat in Looney Tunes fashion. It was one of my all-time favourite parts and the most iconic. Alongside this style, we see a black-and-white noir serial of a private investigator, a Wild West stand-off, science fiction with a phenomenal knock-off Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series 1987-1994), a sports game of hockey, a period drama of 18th Century France called 'Off With His Head' to a music video and plenty more. The creativity of this magnificent adventure is on full display during the channel-skipping sequence that sees varying situations in quick succession as Roy and Spike fight over the world controlling remote. That final battle, especially the sword duel, was truly spectacular and equally can be said about Spike as the main villain who relishes in the chaos. This film throws so many wacky moments at you, filled with laughs, suspense and energetic action, making for top-class entertainment. The argumentative couple slowly begin to reconcile, rekindling their love for one another and the experience helps Roy come to terms with his inactivity, making the effort in every way going forward. Overall, Stay Tuned is one of the wackiest, lesser-talked-about cult classics I have had the pleasure of viewing. There are many references, superb effects, overwhelming creativity, tremendous acting and hilarious comedy. What more could you want from a movie?

Runtime: 1h 28m

Director: Peter Hyams

Genre: Adventure / Comedy / Fantasy

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Rush Hour (1998)

When the eleven-year-old daughter of the Chinese Consul in Los Angeles is kidnapped, the desperate father insists on summoning his old friend and Hong Kong Police ace detective, Inspector Lee, to assist the FBI in the investigation. However, the bureau is far from keen on allowing the newcomer to get in their way, so they pair him up with the loudmouthed L.A.P.D. detective, James Carter, to watch over him. Of course, no one is particularly happy about this awkward partnership; nevertheless, the mismatched duo of reluctant partners must team up to solve this mystery before the FBI. Rush Hour has to be up there at the top of best buddy cop movies. Whilst following many themes from other movies with the buddy cop dynamic, where two vastly different cops have to join forces to get the job done, I feel that this pair is unique or at least doesn't feel unoriginal. There have been countless movies of this subgenre over the decades with them certainly peaking in the 80s like Lethal Weapon (1987), Stakeout (1987) Tango & Cash (1989) and the list goes on. However, despite retaining some elements and attributes of those film's duo relationships, I feel that this pair bring something new to that well-established genre. Detective Inspector Lee (played by Jackie Chan) is trained in martial arts and is capable of doing some insane stunts and acrobatics. The most impressive aspect of his character is that all these skills are done by Jackie himself as he is renowned for doing his own stunts. He keeps his eye on the task at all times doing everything in his power to complete the task at hand, especially seeing this mission is asked by his friend but also since he has a strong relationship with the kidnapped girl. Detective James Carter (played by Chris Tucker) on the other hand doesn't always make the best decisions, best seen during his introduction during an undercover mission that saw him get two cops shot and a car exploding with the evidence inside in a populated area, where he proceeds to dance like Michael Jackson. It is hilarious, which also sums up his character as he delivers some of the funniest lines both in quick succession and in a humourous fashion. Carter has the wit, charm and loves to sing and dance, even helping Lee in a phenomenal sequence of them singing 'War' by Edwin Starr whilst staking out a restaurant. Their initial introductions are perfect at showing how contrasting the pair is from Lee taking down an armed boat stealthily, kicking ass, Carter on the other hand messes everything up. Upon meeting they don't immediately get along, much like in other buddy cop movies, yet they do stick together using both of their skills to uncover any information. As they spend more time with one another, they grow closer as partners sharing details about their fathers being cops and learning stuff from the other. Lee shows Carter his country's food, and how to fight, like disarming gunmen whilst Carter teaches Lee how to dance, sing and have a good time. Lee isn't as fluent with his English and ends up listening too much to Carter resulting in some problems, like repeating the N-word resulting in a bar fight that he wins yet is confused as to what he did wrong. I love their dyrnamic so much making them one of my favourite cop duos. Even though they aren't involved in the other operations of the investigation, they still manage to do the most legwork, uncovering hideouts and closing in on the operation. There are plenty of henchmen to fight with and a rival of Lee's, Sang who escaped his clutches but there is another mastermind to this plot hidden in plain sight. The final confrontation to save Soo Yung, the kidnapped girl, is awesome, full of fights, shootouts, acrobatics, tension and comedic moments. The pair are in full force as they take down the menace once and for all. Overall, Rush Hour is an exceptional flick that is likely to remain a staple in pop culture history. I like how this isn't limited to a comedy and can combine the story with drama, action and deliver an interesting story. Lee and Carter have a fantastic friendship that blossoms throughout the adventure that grows in each instalment. Check the sequel Rush Hour 2 (2001) for more crazy antics from this epic duo.

Runtime: 1h 38m

Director: Brett Ratner

Genre: Action / Comedy / Crime / Thriller

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The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Tis the season for love, laughter and one of the most cherished stories of all time. Join Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and all the hilarious Muppets in this merry, magical version of Charles Dickens's classic tale. One fateful Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Together with kind, humble Bob Cratchit and his family, these Spirits open Scrooge's eyes and heart to the true meaning of Christmas. It's funny to think that one of the best depictions of the classic tale of a Christmas Carol would come in the form of the Muppets. There have been plenty of versions to come out over the decades that are quite phenomenal and play it extremely seriously. This one can combine the best of the more faithful takes with their Muppet ways from jokes, songs and hilarious twists. Yet, surprisingly, it works and has become one of the most beloved variations of them all that is certainly quality family viewing. Naturally, the Muppets steal the show with their bizarre and wacky ways that come as no surprise. It was incredible watching this Victorian setting full of humans and puppets alike with, of course, the muppets being their comedic selves like a salesman selling talking fruit. Even if you haven't seen any other products from the Muppets, I can easily see people having a blast with this movie. Although it would certainly make the viewing more entertaining with more background knowledge, it is still a blast for any moviegoer, especially children. One of the great highlights of this movie is Scrooge played outstandingly by Michael Caine, who plays the character with the utmost seriousness. It only goes to show what an exceptional actor he is doing it as though it was an utterly dramatic role whilst acting off of puppets. Every scene he is in is just oozing with solemnity, whether it be with another human character or a Muppet. His growth throughout the film is very earnest and quite believable. Throughout his story, we are joined by the fourth-wall-breaking comedy duo Charles Dickens (The Great Gonzo) and Rizzo the Rat. Seeing Gonzo get so into his role as Dickens was hilarious. He is so absorbed by it all, believing himself to be the historical figure, proving it so by announcing coming scenes moments before they happen to Rizzo's amazement. Gonzo and Rizzo work tremendously off one another, having tremendous banter with Gonzo getting so engaged in every sequence, whereas Rizzo is always looking for his next meal. They watch on with us and work as a segway into each new part of the story, cracking the odd joke either in the environment or with one another. The rest of the Muppet crew take equally memorable places with Bob Cratchet being Kermit, and Mrs Cratchet, Miss Piggy who are both iconic in their own right but in these roles too. Kermit is always a delight and Miss Piggy continues to be her temperamental self. I adore the scene where she threatens to raise Scrooge right off the pavement, which always has me in hysterics. However, the most impressive aspect of this production as a whole has to be the songs. There are so many catchy, emotional and joyous songs to be entertained by. This includes 'Scrooge', 'One More Sleep 'til Christmas', 'Marley and Marley', 'It Feels Like Christmas', 'Bless Us All', 'Thankful Heart' and 'When Love Is Found'. Now, there is one song that did make it into the film upon its release and home media but has since been removed in a shocking development. 'The Love Is Gone' was the song sung by Belle during the story when she releases Scrooge, which is naturally an emotional piece that, whilst sad, is an integral part of the story. It is also important as the later song at the end, 'When Love Is Found' plays it doesn't bear any impactfulness as the resolute to the other. The reasoning was Disney thought it was too mature and sad for younger audiences. Yes, it's meant to be sad and to remove it removes a huge element to the development of the film. Overall, I have always loved the Muppet Christmas Carol and will always hold a special place in my heart. It has been a family tradition to watch every Christmas Eve and is one I know will continue for years.  

Runtime: 1h 29m

Director: Brian Henson

Genre: Comedy / Drama / Family / Fantasy / Musical

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Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)

From the beginning of the Federation, the Prime Directive was clear: no Starfleet expedition may interfere with the natural development of other civilizations. But now, Picard is confronted with orders that undermine that decree. If he obeys, six hundred peaceful residents of Ba'ku will be forcibly removed from their remarkable world, all for the reportedly greater good of millions who will benefit from the planet's regenerative radiation. If he disobeys, he will risk his starship, his career and his life. But for Picard, there's only one choice. He must rebel against Starfleet and Son'A, leading an insurrection to preserve Paradise. After the explosive events of Star Trek: First Contact (1996), we take a slightly laid-back adventure that whilst doesn't live up to the previous escapade, is one I thoroughly enjoyed. I was quite surprised by how many people disregarded this film because I thought it was a lot of fun. I can understand some reasons why it may not be as popular but it is far from all the hate it receives. Insurrection is by no means a bad movie and easily trumps the following flick as it delivers essentially a Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series 1987-1994) style episode to the big screen. Some may see this as a hindrance, but I can't see how. It captures the feel of the program in a way that honours it whilst giving us something new. Also, the opening sequence is phenomenal as it harks back to the series with Starfleet observing civilizations undercover to study their culture and development with cloaked towers and invisible suits. However, things go awry when one member starts fighting back against pursuers who is revealed to be Data after taking off his suit, uncovering the operation to the Ba'ku. The whole situation instantly captivated me, with my mind racing with questions as to why Data would behave this way. Once the Enterprise found out, they rushed to his aid, which was a superb example of the duty of care the crew share for one another. Their efforts to save Data, refusing to let the Son'A take the matter into their own hands, was brilliant. Picard and Worf's attempts to stop Data's shuttle are hilarious as they distract him by singing 'A British Tar', which he had been practising before he left in hopes he might remember. Seeing them all sing was simply fantastic and I couldn't help but laugh at Worf shaking his head to Picard's "Sing Worf" before giving in. The Ba'ku people are a peaceful civilisation and have no technology of their own choice, having a vast knowledge of it and yet choose not to use it in their lives. The planet has a peculiar effect on the inhabitants due to its regenerative radiation that rejuvenates people and gives them eternal life. Such a paradise is sought out by the Son'A, led by Ru'Afo, who are in constant need of surgery due to their unnatural appearance that frequently breaks or bleeds. Teaming up with the Federation through Admiral Dougherty, they plan to transport the people without their knowing to another world to use it for their own. Picard, and his crew, refute such an act and fight back, protecting the people by interfering with the Son'A's efforts. I loved being able to see the whole crew in action again using rifles/phasers against ground forces and even getting some more Enterprise-E action in a space battle. My favourite aspect of the movie was the effects of the planet on the crew with, Geordi gaining his real sight without needing his implants, Will and Deanna rekindling their relationship after years passed between them (which was awesome as I wanted them together since the show), Will even shaves his iconic beard just like in season 1 and Picard develops a romance for Ba'Ku woman, Anij. These instances led to some amusing moments, especially from Data, that cracked me up. Overall, I think Insurrection is the most underrated of the NG movies. The film manages to perfectly juggle a plethora of emotions from its humour to more heartfelt pieces to its all-out action making for an enthralling story. It even has the most brutal and horrific death in the franchise hands down. The crew are a delight as always, taking an otherwise borderline flick into some quality content. Check out the last entry in Star Trek: Nemesis (2002).

Runtime: 1h 43m

Director: Jonathan Frakes

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi / Thriller

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