On May 14, 1986, Marty McFly is trying to adjust to a life without his best friend, Doctor Emmett "Doc" Brown, when to his surprise, the time-traveling DeLorean suddenly shows up, driverless, carrying a recorded message. Using the clues from the car, Marty discovers Doc has been arrested for the arson of a speakeasy in 1931. It is now up to Marty to rescue his old friend one more time. Ever since I was a kid, I have adored the Back to the Future trilogy, so when I heard of a video game telling an original story in the series, I was quite intrigued. Especially, since the game takes place six months after the events of Back to the Future Part III (1990). Whilst that ending is the most perfect and definitive conclusion, I always wondered what another adventure could've been like and that's what this delivers. It is the closest thing we fans will ever have to a Part IV that, even Bob Gale (the co-creator and writer of the originals) stated as much when working closely with the developers. Naturally, the most integral aspect of this game is its story, which had a great deal to live up to and, frankly, it easily delivered a phenomenal experience. Thankfully, the game's development was handled by hardcore fans, who knew exactly what people would want and hope for from this title. That being said, they take it in ways I would not have expected that honestly were quite ingenious. Travelling to the 1930s was quite an interesting choice for the focal setting of the expedition but once the story gets in full swing its potential only flourishes. Seeing another time period interpretation of Hill Valley was a lot of fun but what truly captivated me was the characters. Marty encounters many faces, new and old, with some stellar interactions from a young Emmett Brown to even Biff's father, Irving 'Kid' Tannen. The attention to detail was exceptional as they carry forth the mannerisms and attitudes we have come to expect from these characters and their families. This adventure also further strengthens the relationship between Marty and Doc when Marty must befriend the younger Emmett, whose inventions could rescue his future self. I found this interpretation of a young variant to be a marvellous addition and outstandingly portrayed by actor James Arnold Taylor. He has the most superb voice acting delivery, which brings unwavering believability as to what a young Emmett would be like. I won't dive further into the story, as it is a thrilling experience best played first-hand and spoiler-free. The story is split into five chapters, each filled with a rollercoaster of emotions to get hooked on. Over each chapter, I thoroughly loved the exploration of the multiple aspects of time travel as seen in the movies, which is expanded upon here with new ideas. Throughout this journey, we naturally play as Marty McFly, while not voiced by Michael J. Fox, he is brought to startling likeness by A.J. LoCascio who delivers an unprecedented performance worthy of the character. Christopher Lloyd does reprise as Doc and is just as great as in the movies, plus, Fox does have a cameo so the duo do get to work together. Initially released in 2010, the game received a 30th Anniversary Edition in 2015 to commemorate the first film's release, which has become the ideal version to use and is the one I played. Unfortunately, the graphics are a bit dated and could be improved alongside some gameplay elements, but it didn't ruin my experience. The title is a point-and-click adventure that features many interactive elements, such as choosing dialogue options and a plethora of puzzles to solve. I loved having options for dialogues that made it fun to pick how to approach situations, allowing for great replayability unearthing lines you might have missed beforehand. Anyone who has played a Telltale game will be familiar with this format, which they perfected and expanded upon over the years. Overall, I had a blast with this video game that extends the Back to the Future story delivering that long-awaited Part IV. It carries across all the familiar beats we have come to know and love of the originals whilst taking the story further and down new paths never before considered. It holds many twists, thrills and heartfelt moments worthy of the series that fans will adore.
Platforms: PlayStation 3 / PlayStation 4 / Xbox 360 / Xbox One / Wii / Windows
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).
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.
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.
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