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

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailers:

My DVD Boxset:

Back to the Future Part II (1989)

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.

Runtime: 1h 48m

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Genre: Adventure / Comedy / Sci-fi

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset:

The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)

Prince John and the Norman Lords begin oppressing the Saxon masses in King Richard's absence in 1190s England. However, Saxon lord, Sir Robin of Locksley, fights back as the outlaw leader of a resistance movement. He and his band of Merry Men, rob the rich to give to the poor and foil the cruel sheriff of Nottingham, Sir Guy of Gisbourne, whilst keeping the nefarious Prince John off the throne. Robin Hood is one of the oldest tales in English folklore that, despite its age, continues to entertain the masses to this day. A story full of enthralling adventure naturally captivates the imagination and excitement of people of all ages over countless decades. It is therefore no wonder such a tale would make for a thrilling big screen experience. However, this wasn't the first big screen outing for the swashbuckling hero, with previous adaptations dating back to 1908 and 1922. Whilst equally entertaining, many, including myself, would regard this as a definite introduction to the character on the silver screen. This adaptation is rich in every conceivable aspect. Firstly, the enormous 'stage-like' sets were magnificent, like, for instance, the castle, which held an unprecedented scale unlike anything I had seen in film from this time. It truly took advantage of the possibilities for a big-screen depiction, allowing opportunities to leave audiences in awe at the sheer size of its set design. Personally, this was the most surprising aspect that impressed me immensely. A film from this decade with real sets of this magnitude easily overshadows the lifeless CGI landscapes of some movies. Secondly, there was the action that ups the ante with its invigorating flashy sword fights, which were as visually impressive as they were physically. Accompanying these fights is the grand soundtrack that elevates these scenes to their peak excitement, equally doing wonders for other scenes of varying emotions. Thirdly, we have the other integral participant in the visual spectacle, the magnificent colours. I find this to be the film's greatest asset since not only was it not commonly used at this time in filmmaking, but it allowed for some spectacular striking visuals. The colours used were the most vibrant possible and like the effort dealt to the grandiose scale, it too took full advantage of its capabilities making for another Technicolor delight. Finally, we have the players, those in the foreground delivering those hard-hitting lines, leaping into the action and having all the fun. Robin Hood is played by Errol Flynn who is best known for his swashbuckling romance roles with this one probably being his most recognisable. His portrayal certainly set the bar for all future incarnations of the character and his performance was quite the stand out. From the physical side with the sword duels to his comedic playful dialogue, filling the story with plenty of joyful laughter. I thoroughly enjoyed watching his formation of the band of Merry Men and how he gained their trust and loyalty. Naturally, his crew consists of Little John, Friar Tuck, Will Scarlett, Much the Miller's son and countless others. I found it quite interesting to see just how many people join forces with Robin in the woods as some depictions only show the main names you know with the occasional aid from villages, so an army made for quite the spectacle during battles. Later joining them would be the beautiful Maid Marian played by Olivia de Havilland whose performance as the heroine equally shone, especially in the growing romance with Robin. Similar praise can be said for all cast including the villains, Sir Guy of Gisbourne and Prince John, whose cunning and imposing presences made for fantastic antagonists, especially Gisbourne, who has some exquisite fencing with Robin in the final battle. Overall, The Adventures of Robin Hood is a pinnacle of the golden age of Hollywood. From its superb casting in both leading and supporting roles, the phenomenal action, set pieces and score, to the stunning colour visuals, this picture is everything a movie should aspire to be. It has stood the test of time and still looks incredible, inspiring countless films over the decades and influencing the many Robin Hoods yet to come. 

Runtime: 1h 42m

Directors: Michael Curtiz, William Keighley

Genre: Action / Adventure / Romance

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset:

The Sound of Music (1965)

In Austria 1938, Captain Georg Von Trapp, a widower, runs his home like the ship he once commanded although, that changes when Maria arrives from the abbey to be his seven children's new governess. She is surprised to learn she's the latest in a long line of governesses seen off by the children, but Maria soon finds that all they need is a little love to change their attitudes. She helps reintroduce them to singing, and through her, music is brought back into the hearts and home of the Trapp family. The Sound of Music is undoubtedly one of the most significant musicals of all time and the most beloved. It has not only firmly remained a classic after all these years but still looks phenomenal now. Its visuals are breathtaking with a superb direction that brings us countless beautiful shots. Whether it be the sweeping shots of the luscious mountain landscapes or even the mere stills of such grandiose locations as the villa and festival stage, this film is inundated with stunning imagery worthy of a theatrical presence. Further shaping the movie are those in the foreground, Maria and the Von Trapp family. We follow Maria who leaves her life in the abbey as a nun to aid the family of Captain Von Trapp. I adored these characters whose interactions and moments together were extremely captivating and brought to such life by their respective actors/actresses. Julie Andrews (Maria) has such a magnificent singing voice that elevates every scene to peak delight which, only blossoms greater when combined with the children, Liesl, Friedrich, Louisa, Kurt, Brigitta, Marta, and Gretl. There are a plethora of songs throughout in which to hear their exquisite voices with so many memorable classics from 'My Favourite Things', 'The Sound of Music', 'Do-Re-Mi', 'The Lonely Goatherd', 'Sixteen Going on Seventeen', 'So Long, Farewell' and more. The songs have even surpassed the movie becoming so universally known that people who haven't even seen it likely know them. Plus, there are plenty more songs featured like those from the Nuns and Mother Abbess with 'Maria' and 'Climb Ev'ry Mountain'. However, the ones I was most captivated and surprised by were from that of Christopher Plummer (The Captain). He has such a voice I was simply blown away by his performance and subsequent songs, with my favourite being the somewhat emotional 'Edelweiss'. As well as being so captivating in terms of the music, each was equally so in the story. Now, the movie is based upon the real story of the Von Trapp family singers, however, naturally, there have been alterations to the cinematic telling, which comes in at a pretty lengthy timestamp. Although, when I watched it again recently I hardly noticed. There wasn't any feeling of it dragging or taking too long. So it comes as no surprise when I say I loved the story. I most enjoyed watching Maria attempt to connect with the children who make the matter difficult as they try scaring her off like previous governesses as they hope to gain their father's attention. However, she finally gets through to them rejuvenating that sense of joy as they come to share an unbreakable bond that also befalls the Captain, who had suffered the worst from the incident. However, the Captain is now engaged to the Baroness, which causes some conflict inside Maria who, without meaning to, has grown a liking to him also. One of the most noteworthy aspects of this movie is its setting. Anyone who noticed the year would immediately make the troublesome connection. Underlying a constant background feeling of dread with the imminent takeover by the Nazis looming. There are hints of this change throughout with it being a topic brought up gradually until it consumes the picture leaving the family to make a difficult decision. Overall, The Sound of Music is a production I and many others consider to be flawless. It manages to convey countless emotions through varying elements like its songs, acting and story, which is tremendously visceral. It is a feature perfect for the whole family certain to captivate you, make you sing and warm your heart. An integral movie to the world of cinema, everyone should experience.

Runtime: 2h 52m

Director: Robert Wise

Genre: Biography / Drama / Family / Musical / Romance

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Copy:

The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires (1974)

In 1904, Professor Van Helsing ventures to China on a lecture tour, where his lessons about the legends of 7 golden vampires are dismissed by his students. However, a local family believe him, knowing full well of their existence and where to find them. They join forces, which leads Helsing to get caught up in a battle between good and evil as the gang of sword-wielding vampires rise from their graves. The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires marked the 9th and final entry in Hammer's extensive Dracula series. Each picture progressively got more unique (and somewhat peculiar) with each addition, though none went nearly as far or was as ambitious as this one. Following The Satanic Rites of Dracula (1973), we yet again disconnect from any form of continuity, delivering a stand-alone story. This movie was a collaborative piece between Hammer Film Productions and Shaw Brothers Studio, which would bring forth an unimaginable product, a martial arts horror flick. A mix of genres one wouldn't expect to work out, however, it does more than that, it excels and is simply put, awesome. Who would relish in the idea of epic flashy fights against vampires and an army of undead? Naturally, the slight genre shift of this movie can make it feel out of place in the series (despite the last two doing similarly for different reasons), but I was able to look past it once I was hooked on the adventure at hand. We open in 1804 at Castle Dracula who sadly isn't reprised by Christopher Lee finally having enough of the series and refusing to return. The Count would instead be played by John Forbes-Robertson whose portrayal is sufficient but unfortunately doesn't come close to rivalling the great Lee. Plus, the overwhelming amount of make-up does his appearance no favours. Dracula is approached by Kah (or as my family calls him 'Reg' after mishearing Dracula's remark 'wretch' to him), who requests his help in resurrecting the seven vampires and the power of the temple. Dracula agrees, but on his terms, possessing Kah's body and setting off to China. Cutting to 1904, we are reunited with leading protagonist Lawrence Van Helsing (and his portrayer Peter Cushing) for one final explosive escapade. I thoroughly enjoyed Cushing's Van Helsing in all of his iterations in the series and this outing was no exception. I also love that this version wears the exact outfit of his character, the Doctor from Dr. Who and the Daleks (1965). Helsing's knowledgeable background in these adversaries makes him a powerful asset in the mission at hand. He is met by student, Hsi Ching, who believes Helsing's teaching recruiting him to free the village from its horrors. He offers him protection, bringing his six brothers the twins Sung and San, Ta, Kwei, Jin How and Bao Kwei, alongside his one sister, Mai Kwei, each capable in multiple martial art forms. The company is also joined by Helsing's son Leyland and rich widow, Vanessa Buren, who finances the trip. I loved this idea of following an entire expedition on a perilous task and quickly became attached to each member with their unique personalities. Our group encounter many oppositions along their journey filled with extensive action and visually stunning displays of excellently choreographed battles. My favourite had to be the fight in the cave where our unexpecting group was resting and quickly had to leap into action. Needless to say, the highlight of the production was the final act where our crew began preparations to hold the village from the amassing army. The entire segment was marvellous with an immense display of accelerating scrimmage, full of chaos with fire blazing and foes at every turn that our heroes are pushed to their limits, which takes its toll. You will be glued to the screen with bated breath from the first to the final blow. Overall, I cannot help but adore this cult classic mix-match genre epic. I was left in a constant state of awe at the flowing action and was captivated by the characters and actors, especially Cushing. It may not be the best of the series, sadly being its last, but it is a fun and exciting film sure to bring joy to any who watch. This concludes my review of Hammer's Dracula series, and I hope you have enjoyed it as much as me.

 

Runtime: 1h 29m

Directors: Roy Ward Baker, Cheh Chang

Genre: Action / Horror

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Copy:

The Satanic Rites of Dracula (1973)

Secret Service and Scotland Yard police investigators believe they have uncovered a case of vampirism in London. They call in expert vampire researcher Professor Lorrimer Van Helsing to help them stop these hideous crimes. It becomes apparent that the culprit is none other than Count Dracula, disguised as a reclusive property developer, secretly plotting to unleash a fatal virus upon the world. The Satanic Rites marks the 8th entry in Hammer's Dracula series, following on from the events of Dracula A.D. 1972 (1972). Its continuation of the story allowed for many returning characters, locations and recalling of events, which cemented the pair's shared continuity. I found this to be the film's strongest attribute, developing every element further in exciting and interesting ways. I particularly loved the reprisal of figures who originally had meagre parts step into the limelight, such as Inspector Murray. He was a fun side character in A.D. but ultimately didn't get anything crucial to do, until now, playing a pivotal role, aiding Helsing and getting in on the action. Even Helsing's granddaughter, Jessica, would make a return, although now recast, which I'm still unsure how I feel about. Naturally returning prior characters meant another showdown was set in place for returning stars, Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee in their respective roles as Van Helsing and Dracula. Their ceremonious reunion was a huge highlight of the last title and would be an equal driving force here. Lee's Dracula plays a much more prominent role than in the previous, having plenty more to do, say and finally, a bigger vendetta to pursue rather than his personal revenge missions of the past. His presence continues to be grand in all his scenes, featuring his demanding, booming voice with plenty of dialogue. Cushing's Lorrimer Van Helsing equally receives plenty to do, becoming the focal protagonist who must once more use his cunning to unearth the dark mysteries and expose the truth. I also love how he would later arm himself for a confrontation with Dracula, bringing a cross and so on, including a gun, which made for a fantastic image of him wielding the two. Any opportunity to see the duo together makes for required viewing as their chemistry elevates the production, even if this is the most confusing and weakest movie in the series. Many would argue this derived from the film's juggling of a plethora of genres, which come across as less of a 'Hammer Dracula' production and more as a spy, thriller or crime flick. One that just so happens to have vampires present. Its mix-matched genre styles can be quite puzzling, almost as though the film itself isn't sure what it's meant to be. I'm not sure espionage, car chases, and police investigations were high demands for a Dracula film but, it has the luxury of never being done before or since. All being said, amidst its flaws, I still found much to enjoy and certainly don't hate the film. Whilst it has been deemed the weakest movie by viewers, it has evolved in its perception by fans, much like A.D. 1972 has. We definitely see a departure from some of its more 'campy' themes, moving away from its hippie focus and taking a seemingly more serious and darker tone. There are plenty of aspects using more violence, mainly including shoot-outs, as well as upping the horror, best seen through the twisted farm of chained-up vampiric brides in a basement. Furthermore, Dracula's plan is just as horrifying, aiming to destroy the population with a manufactured plague whilst it could be argued as making little sense for him to do so, it would practically be his ultimate revenge. I also liked the detail of the headquarters of the evil goings-on being the original grounds of the condemned church, where Dracula died in the last film and would feature one of the best sequences with the mortal enemies talking face to face. Overall, The Satanic Rites is a pretty basic Dracula film, in my opinion. It has plenty of redeemable qualities but still falls flat as it loses its identity in attempting to do too much. I think Cushing and Lee's involvement makes this worth watching, especially to see Lee's final portrayal as the definitive iteration of Dracula. Check out the final production The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires (1974) for more.

 

Runtime: 1h 27m

Director: Alan Gibson

Genre: Horror

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

Dracula A.D. 1972 (1972)

London has become a small town for a handful of jaded psychedelic-era hipsters. Except, Johhny Alucard has a groovy new way for his pals to get their kicks. A particular ritual will be the living end, he insists, but little do they know how deadly serious he is. Whilst the act comes to fruition, the now resurrected Dracula must still face the descendant of his archnemesis, Van Helsing. Whilst a sequel to Scars of Dracula (1970), it equally chose to depart from the rest of the series, starting a fresh in probably the most ... unique way. Dracula A.D. 1972 decided to do something new and, in doing so, departed from its Gothic period settings in favour of bringing this ancient evil to the realms of today, modernising the series. The period aspect had always been at these film's core but even this production couldn't totally cast it aside. The film opens with a climactic confrontation between Lawrence Van Helsing and Dracula in 1872 aboard a moving coach, travelling at high speeds. Their animalistic fight is a gripping opening to the picture displaying Helsing's triumph over his sworn enemy before his ultimate demise. However, a follower of the Count collects the ashes for safekeeping. This introduction is absolutely fantastic, instantly pumping you with adrenaline before the title card has even been played. I further adored the transition from the 19th Century setting being panned up to the sky as funky music blares out with a plane crossing the screen, transporting us to 1972. That adrenaline is carried on through the entire sequence by this killer soundtrack that has the grooviest theme in any Dracula film! The soundtrack is a tremendous highlight and one I can honestly say is worth owning. Mike Vicker's composed theme alone is a stand-out track and one that's permanently stuck in my head. Viewers will be quick to notice the reprisal of actor Peter Cushing as Van Helsing or rather, both versions as he plays Lawrence during the opening and his descendant, Lorrimer, our main protagonist. I loved the return of Cushing to this franchise after all, his last appearance with Christopher Lee's Dracula was way back in the first film, Dracula (1958). Naturally, the pair steal the spotlight, bringing outstanding scenes at the abundance, elevating the picture tenfold. Their inevitable reunion during the finale is a phenomenal segment that will have fans on tenterhooks. During the year 1972, Lorrimer Van Helsing leads a standard life looking after his granddaughter, Jessica who on the other hand, spends her time hanging out with her hippie-like friends who like to have fun crashing parties and doing wild things for kicks. Jessica and her friends are one of the main focuses of the movie and are easily one of the reasons this film was classed as dated. Even my Dad joked "The film was dated when it came out", which I find hilarious. Despite all this, it has weirdly improved with age and is favourably looked at now by more people revisiting it. Jessica is undeniably the most intriguing member of the group to follow, with her ties to Van Helsing and how she would become an ideal target for a revenge plot. Among her group, member Johhny Alucard proposes an experience like no other, suggesting a black mass. Reluctantly agreeing under peer pressure, they do so in a condemned church. However, when the situation becomes increasingly realistic, they all scatter moments before Dracula makes his dramatic revival. Now with his vampiric turned servant, Johhny, Dracula hunts each member. However, when the police get involved and seek the Helsings for questioning, Lorrimer begins investigating the matter, equally hunting Dracula and his spawn. Overall, Dracula A.D. 1972 is a fascinating step in the series, taking the age-old tale in a new direction. This is a guilty pleasure for me and my Dad as we found plenty to enjoy from its ambitious and outright groovy style. Plus it was my introduction to the Hammer Dracula series. It's a so bad it's good film that also manages to deliver a brilliant soundtrack as well as the reuniting of Cushing and Lee in their iconic roles. Movie-goers will find plenty to be entertained by from this unusual flick. Check out the continuation in The Satanic Rites of Dracula (1973).

 

Runtime: 1h 36m

Director: Alan Gibson

Genre: Horror

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

Theme Song:

My DVD Copy: