Forbidden Planet (1956)

When Commander Adams and his crew are sent to investigate why there have been no communications from a planet explored 20 years earlier by scientists, he finds only two survivors, Dr. Morbius and his daughter, Altaira. Morbius isn't exactly pleased to see them and would have preferred that they hadn't landed. He does his best to get them on their way but Commander Adams and his men soon face an invisible force leading them to believe that Morbius and the girl are in danger. Morbius claims to know nothing of other life on the planet but does reveal there once existed a far superior race, now extinct, that had an unimaginable power, which the Dr., however, has no intention of sharing. Forbidden Planet is simply the definition of a cult classic and has cemented its popularity in pop culture history. Although the movie flopped upon its original release, despite being an expensive production for its time, this feature has only grown in its popularity over the years and has become so beloved by fans. It's easy to see why this film has received such overwhelming admiration from the beautiful sets and landscapes, the creative special effects, the amazing acting and last but not least, Robby the Robot. I was blown away by how intricate the detail on display was. The grand desert-like landscape of the planet, Altair IV, looks incredibly real with a fantastic backdrop, which seals the deal of creating a believable alien world. Not only does the Altair IV hold such impressive detail, but other elements like the futuristic buildings, the spaceship, the crew's weapons and every single piece of equipment visible. Everything adds up towards the making of a truly breathtaking science fiction picture that has stood the test of time with the help of some magnificent cinematography. When it comes to the practical and visual effects, they are out of this world. For the time they are exceptional. The one I loved most was during the monster attack on the spaceship that used some hand-drawn animation from the creature to the weapons firing, everything looked truly magical. Out of all the actors, the one who surprised me the most was Leslie Nielsen as Commander Addams mainly due to his instant association with his more comedic productions, which threw me off slightly to see him acting in a serious role. Despite releasing long before his comedy movie streak was made popular by the hilarious Airplane! (1980), it still feels odd seeing him being so stern and natural. However, although Nielsen may have been a great actor in this production, the spotlight shone on another upcoming star, Robby the Robot. Robby has become a staple in the film industry as one of the most famous robots in the entirety of pop culture history. He is not only known for his appearance in Forbidden Planet as he has also appeared in his own films and other productions as cameos, most notably in Gremlins (1984) and Looney Tunes: Back in Action (2003). This sci-fi adventure classic may be one of the most recognisable of this genre since, after all, it practically made it. Products such as Star Wars may have redefined this genre drastically, but this one certainly created it. It is clear how much of an impact it had going forward for the inspiration of other projects, especially Star Trek (TV Series 1966-1969). Whilst watching this for the first time, I was instantly brought to the feeling that I was viewing a classic Star Trek adventure. Upon collecting, all the elements of this production together, it starts to sound like a big-screen budget episode of the outstanding sci-fi show. It is obvious how it inspired the creation of that television program as they practically share the same essence. Being a huge fan of Star Trek (especially the original) this almost felt like a fun addition to the program, which made my enjoyment all the more so. Overall, what more can be said about this classic other than it is perfect? I adore this piece of 50s sci-fi that feels so grand in every aspect, which managed to start a catalyst that created so many other iconic productions. I highly recommend checking this one out and I'm sure it's one everybody can easily recognise even if you've never seen it, but why not look it over for yourself to fully understand why it is praised by so many?

Runtime: 1h 38m

Director: Fred M. Wilcox

Genre: Adventure / Sci-fi

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Copy:

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023)

During the early 90s, Optimus Prime and the Autobots take on their biggest challenge yet. When a new threat capable of destroying the entire planet emerges, they must team up with a powerful faction of Transformers known as the Maximals, led by Optimus Primal, to save Earth. Planet eater, Unicron, sends his Terracons and Predacons, led by the treacherous, Scourge, to obtain the Transwarp key. It is a device that can open portals in space-time, which Unicron will use to travel to as many planets as he wants for devouring. The Autobots also want the key so they can get to their home, Cybertron and will fight against the forces of evil for it. I enjoyed this new instalment in the live-action Transformers movie franchise, but it isn't part of the first 5 Bay-verse films. It follows on from the reboot story of the Bumblebee (2018) movie, where Rise of the Beasts continues the story of the Autobots residing on Earth in the year 1994 since the previous adventure, during 1987. With time having passed, the Autobots want nothing more than to get back home after having been trapped on the planet for so long, despite only intending to use it as a base to regroup. However, once the key is activated, it becomes a race to claim the device before the enemy uses it to bring about Earth, and their home's destruction. I loved seeing the Autobots again in their iconic G1 style we caught a glimpse of in the previous film. There have been some changes, especially with characters like Wheeljack, whose design has drastically changed, and I want to say for the worse, as I preferred his last look, which was more accurate and honestly perfect. Every other character looks fine and extremely cool with my favourite new addition being Mirage, who gets some of the most screen time. His ability to self-duplicate with holograms is brilliant both in terms of practicality and appearance. He is also the funniest character and delivers some great comic relief whilst remaining a helpful ally in times of need. I was so happy to see Bumblebee again after the last movie now dawning his Chevy Camaro look. I appreciate the acknowledgement of his experiences in the last feature however, I was disappointed that he wasn't in this a lot. He comes into play much heavier in the final 3rd where he steals the show with some phenomenal moments. The biggest highlight from B was his arrival to the final battle where he lept out of the plane in a sequence that had me grinning instantly. I could understand his departure since he had his own one already, but it was still a shame. I equally liked Optimus Prime's design and that we get to see him undertake quite a bit of development. His demeanour to humans is drastically different to the one we are familiar with in the early Bay movies, only caring for his people until he works with humans Noah and Elena, but also, the way the Maximals have befriended and trusted people, even with their most prized possession. Speaking of the Maximals, they make their debut in live-action pictures following their show Beast Wars: Transformers (TV Series 1996-1999), which I hadn't seen at the time of watching this. Although we don't spend much time with them (and even when we do), it is with a selective amount, with other members taking the limelight till the final battle, which they are pretty awesome in. Another returning concept was the planet killer himself, Unicron, who first appeared in The Transformers: The Movie (1986) He looked simply magnificent. His depiction felt like it was lifted straight from the film and it was a true sight to behold, but alas, he bearly made an appearance leaving me very disappointed. I absolutely adored the final 3rd of this flick, which is where it truly shines with that huge battle full of explosive action. Seeing the robots transform during their fights was insane and had beautiful special effects present. Overall, I had lots of fun with this latest Transformers outing. Knowing what the other movies entailed helped me prepare for what I was getting into, making this viewing more entertaining. I will never grow tired of seeing giant space robots duking it out. If only they would lose some of these human elements. Definitely not a bad addition to the franchise, but not one of the best.

Runtime: 2h 7m

Director: Steven Caple Jr.

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Copy:

Tango & Cash (1989)

Ray Tango and Gabriel Cash are narcotics detectives who, while both being extremely successful, can't stand each other. Crime Lord Yves Perret, furious at the loss of income that Tango and Cash have caused him, frames the two for murder. Caught with the murder weapon at the scene of the crime, the two have no alibi. Thrown into prison with most of the criminals they helped convict, it appears that they are going to have to trust each other if they are to clear their names and catch the evil Perret. I adore this cheesy 80s buddy cop movie. There are plenty of aspects to love like: the hilarious comedy, the all-out action sequences and the overwhelming amount of fantastic quippy dialogue. The buddy cop sub-genre was clearly at its peak during the 1980s with multiple brilliant variants out there, such as Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Dragent (1987), Lethal Weapon (1987), Running Scared (1986) and many more. They are easily identifiable with the frequently played sax music alongside some epic synth riffs, crazy hairdos, muscular men, extreme action segments full of explosions and, of course, that sweet hysterical banter. This film takes the cake by combining them all into this perfect product of this genre. Both Tango and Cash are the best of the best but have different ways of doing things. Tango is more to the book in terms of how he works and acts whilst still kicking ass with his incredible shooting, whereas Cash is more carefree in regards to some of the rules, always cracking jokes and frequently showing love for his weapons. The two don't get along, however, since they both see themselves as the better cop, best seen in one of my favourite pieces of dialogue, Tango (directed at Cash): "I hear you're the second best cop in L.A." followed by Cash's reply, "That's funny, I hear the same thing about you." That snippet from one of their snarky remarks is only an inkling of the phenomenal banter these two share throughout this action-packed thriller. From the get-go, we are shown both of their skills as cops, from Tango's takedown of a cocaine shipment to Cash's survival from a hitman. They are great at their jobs, but taking down so many criminals and completing many busts is likely to cause problems in the long run, which finally comes back to bite them. The problem with having captured so many criminals, it makes figuring out who has set them up much harder, with there being so many possible candidates. Their main antagonist, Perret is a superb villain whose plan to get back at the two detectives was well thought out and came astronomically close to succeeding. After setting them up and getting them in court, Perret bribed different members to ensure their conviction, where they are then 'accidentally' sent to the wrong prison. Once in confinement, the movie becomes a prison break, which is full of cool sequences. We see the two battle inmates (including that guy with the huge chin, which is impressively big!), continue to throw about some jokes and escape in a very tense fashion leaving you on the edge of your seat. Upon their narrow, yet successful, escape the two go separate ways to find the people who put them away to get answers as to who is the mastermind behind it all. Upon collecting much information Cash looks for Tango through his sister, Kiki, who helps bring them together. Kiki's dance scene at the club where Cash finds her is a memorable one as they play the song 'Don't Go' by Yazoo, which is a fabulous tune and an iconic part of this film. The final confrontation to take on Perret is simply packed with explosive conflict as the two cops drive in their armoured prototype "RV from Hell". It is an instant highlight for me as they battle it out, all guns blazing, jumping through flames and crashing into stuff. The fight against Perret and his top goons was also exciting and dangerous with some clever tactics on display as they take them all on. Overall, I had an unbelievable blast with Tango & Cash. It's one of those movies that knows its audience and goes all out. Anyone looking for some witty humour, high-stakes action and an overwhelming dose of the 80s will be pleasantly content with this crime thriller. A rollercoaster of fun worth viewing.

Runtime: 1h 44m

Directors: Andrei Konchalovskiy, Albert Magnoli

Genre: Action / Comedy / Crime / Thriller

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Copy:

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

After a lunar cataclysm brings the Klingons to their knees, the foreign concept of peace with the Federation may finally be within reach. After 70 years of hostility, the Federation and the Klingon Empire prepare for a peace summit. Ironically, Captain James T. Kirk has been assigned as the first emissary to broker that peace. However, the prospect of intergalactic peace with sworn enemies is an alarming one. When the Klingon flagship is attacked, the U.S.S. Enterprise is held accountable and the dogs of war are unleashed again, as both worlds brace for what may be their final, deadly encounter. Following the unusual escapade of Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989) we join the crew of the Enterprise for their final grand adventure and what a send-off it is. I had a thrilling experience with The Undiscovered Country that brought action, exploration, a spy-thriller and mystery to the forefront whilst building up to the end of the series. The film was able to regain its more extravagant look after the previous instalment with being able to attain ILM for the effects once again. Seeing the Enterprise back to its full glory was a delight, looking outstanding for its final outing. I greatly enjoyed this story that saw some espionage segments whilst covering some real-world issues like racism and prejudice. Having our main cast have to come to accept the ruthless Klingons as allies after the countless attacks they have inflicted over the years and on the crew was highly interesting. They have caused great pain for some members, mainly Kirk after the death of his son David at the hands of Klingons, which created some tension, especially during the scenes where they host a dinner with them on the Enterprise. It is so awkward with constant remarks that rile each other up and discuss topics that cause friction between the two parties. However, it doesn't help when a certain member attempts to make matters worse by framing our gallant heroes of attacking them under their prejudices. That moment when the Enterprise fired two torpedoes at the Klingon vessel, Kronos One was a truly unexpected shocking moment that left me open-mouthed. The frantic rush of the crew to ascertain what just occurred was equally stressful as we cut to Kronos One where two crew members in space suits march through the ship killing almost everyone. When Kirk and McCoy beam aboard and attempt to save any survivors, including the life of High Chancellor Gorkon (the one most likely to attain any form of peace), who dies leading to their arrest and placement on trial. They are further framed in a suspenseful sequence that ends with them both being sent to the hard-labour prison camp, Rura Penthe. The two eventually escape and apprehend the one who aided in their set up and discover many spies who are preparing to assassinate the Federation President. It leads to a climactic battle where our main Klingon adversary, Chang, acted superbly by the phenomenal Christopher Plummer, takes shots at the Enterprise, unable to attack the cloaked vessel. I loved how Captain Sulu, now commanding his own ship, the U.S.S. Excelsior, arrives to aid the Enterprise taking on Chang together and all arrive on Earth to save the day. Closing off, we see both ships fly away as the Enterprise is ordered to dock and prepare for decommissioning. They of course ignore them in a tear-jerking moment that sees them fly off into the unknown one last time. I honestly shed a tear at this final adventure coming to its close and was extremely satisfied with how they closed it off with the utmost respect for these characters. I further liked the inclusion with each of their signatures appearing on screen as the music closes out the film, giving the time to honour each member. Overall, The Undiscovered Country is a perfect send-off to this long-running series with these characters. It nailed every aspect, from the comedy, heart, and action to the adventure which combined into a solid feature. A triumphant and worthy conclusion to one of the most popular sci-fi productions of all time. Also, check out the continuing voyages of the Enterprise under a new crew set 70 years after this story in Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series 1987-1994).

Runtime: 1h 50m

Director: Nicholas Meyer

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi / Thriller

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset:

Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)

When the newly-christened starship Enterprise's shakedown cruise goes poorly, Captain Kirk and crew put her into Spacedock for repairs. But an urgent mission interrupts their Earth-bound shore leave. A renegade Vulcan named Sybok has taken three ambassadors hostage on Nimbus III, the Planet of Galactic Peace. This event also attracts the attention of a Klingon captain who wants to make a name for himself and sets out to pursue the Enterprise. Sybok's ragtag army captures the Enterprise and takes her on a journey to the centre of the galaxy in search of the Supreme Being. Following the crowd-pleasing Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), we come to the one that seems to get the most hate of all the movies. There has been a law/curse that people associate with these films that the odd number films (1, 3 and 5) are bad whereas the even number ones (2, 4 and 6) are amazing. I can understand it and see why, but personally, I have enjoyed every single one. I can overlook all the flaws in each production and always have a great time with them, including this one, which unfortunately has quite a few. The Final Frontier did suffer from many production issues most notably having a low budget and not being able to hire ILM for their special effects due to them being in high demand. The special effects can be quite distracting, and feel cheap, especially compared to the standard of the previous ones. The plot is extremely ambitious and, Shatner (who directed this one), had some interesting ideas but ultimately were unable to be made to their fullest with all the problems that arose. Moving on from the negative points, I like this movie. Yeah, I may be in the minority but I am hearing more people saying they don't mind it. So clearly it isn't as hated as it once was, and, yes, it may not be perfect but even when at their weakest, these Trek movies are still perfect entertainment. I was so happy to see the return of the Enterprise in the last film after it was rebuilt although it is slightly disappointing to have it in constant need of repair. It did lead to some funny moments, however, like Kirk's dissatisfaction in the line, "I miss my old chair." and Scotty's line, "I know this ship like the back of my hand." before knocking himself out on a low-hanging beam. There are some amazing comedic moments throughout that were hilarious and had me laughing so that is a plus. Also, the character development is exceptional. We spend a lot of time with Kirk, Spock and McCoy and the three of them have so many fantastic memorable scenes together. Their scenes during shore leaves are beautiful from Kirk's mountain climbing irritating the Dr. who thinks he is playing games with life and Mr Spock using jet boots to hover beside Kirk. Distracting him, Kirk slips causing Spock to shoot down after him catching him at the last moment as Kirk sees McCoy running over saying, "Hi, Bones! Mind if we drop in for dinner?" I further love the campfire scene where they simply talk among themselves dropping some heartfelt dialogue and also try to get Spock to sing 'Row Row Row Your Boat'. Our main antagonist is the mysterious Sybok, a formidable adversary who wishes no harm to anyone, wanting no bloodshed only wanting to fulfil his mission. His Vulcan powers allow him to help people confront their pain and release them in some powerful scenes, especially with McCoy, who has a heartbreaking vision. But as Kirk points out, pain is what makes us who we are and is part of us, which is a great message. He also has a shocking revelation that comes into play later on. The action elements are pretty cool too, particularly during the raid on the fortress at night on Nimbus III. From explosions to phaser blasts and even a brilliant use of Spock's Vulcan nerve pinch. Overall, I don't think this film is deserving of the hate it gets. It's not without its flaws, but I found so much to enjoy in this intriguing story. The comedy is fabulous and the cast keeps delivering on their superb performances. Certainly worth a watch for some moments, if anything, but it is an underrated adventure. Also, see the final movie of the series Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991).

Runtime: 1h 47m

Director: William Shatner

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi / Thriller

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset:

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

Branded as fugitives by the very Federation they swore to protect, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise dutifully returns to Earth to face charges for crimes committed in the course of rescuing a resurrected Spock. But en route, it is learned that the Earth is being ravaged by a strange alien probe demanding a response from a life form that no longer exists. They discover the strange sounds of the probe are the songs of the humpback whale, which has been hunted to extinction by the 23rd Century. Commandeering a captured Klingon Bird of Prey, Kirk and his crew plan to save Earth by venturing to 1986 San Francisco to recover the whales, bringing them back to their time. A journey more alien to them than anything they have ever encountered in the far-off reaches of the galaxy. We are finally here folks, the big one. The Voyage Home is my all-time favourite Trek movie in the series tying very closely with Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982). I had such a wonderful time with this delightful adventure that sees two subjects I am most enthusiastic about joined together. Science fiction and the 1980s. Of course, the film was made during the 80s, which instantly also makes it amazing but to have them go back in time to that period was honestly a magical experience. I have always had a passion for that decade, like a nostalgia for a time I never knew and this movie only fueled it even more. Following on from the emotional escapade of Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984), this movie takes a much more comical approach which entails countless hilarious moments whilst delivering an important message. Having the crew try to understand the customs and life of the 20th Century was fantastic as it leads to so many misunderstandings and complications along the way sure to keep you chuckling. I laughed so much during this movie with this off-the-charts level of comedy. Not only are these scenes funny, but the acting of the cast is brilliant as they work off of each other perfectly as per usual, especially with their witty dialogue. I was truly blown away by just how many clever comedic moments were crammed into this masterpiece. My favourite scene in the whole film has to be the infiltration into the hospital to rescue Chekov, who was injured. Dr. McCoy gets some time to shine in his finest hour, showing his skills and knowledge but also, some superb criticisms of the 'dark ages' medical systems. He even heals random patients on their search. I love it when he gives an old lady a pill for her failing kidney, which leads to the highlight during the escape when they pass her shouting "The doctor gave me a pill, and I grew a new kidney!" The plot is equally amusing if you really think about it. Going back in time to rescue whales to save the future from a space probe sounds so absurdly weird, yet funnily enough, it works incredibly well, especially with conveying such an important message. During the 80s humpback whales were in danger of extinction and this film did go a long way in helping them out but it also applies to all species. Going forward we should not be so blasé about other species or help in their extinction as to quote Spock, "To hunt a species to extinction is not logical." I think stories like this are what separates Star Trek from other sci-fi projects and where it excels. Being set on Earth we have more of a connection to these characters/stories than in other movies, like Star Wars, having a deeper relation to it (at least in my opinion). I further liked how this film featured no antagonist, taking the time to develop on character whilst giving a good message filled with a great deal of heart. Overall, I thoroughly adore The Voyage Home as it takes the prize as the best Trek movie. There is so much I want to talk about but I'd be here forever so it is much better to watch it for yourself and experience the overwhelming enjoyment to be had in this phenomenal sci-fi comedy. Easily the highlight is the characters who generate endless amounts of banter, humour and entertainment in every scene. I cannot stress how necessary viewing this movie is, especially if you need some cheering up. Also, look into the next adventure in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989).

Runtime: 1h 59m

Director: Leonard Nimoy

Genre: Action / Adventure / Comedy / Sci-fi

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset:

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)

Admiral Kirk's defeat of Khan Noonien Singh and the creation of the Genesis Planet are empty victories. When they arrive at Spacedock, they are shocked to discover that the Enterprise is to be decommissioned. Mr Spock is dead and Dr. McCoy is, seemingly inexplicably, being driven insane. Then an unexpected visit from Spock's father, Sarek provides a startling revelation: McCoy is harbouring Spock's living essence. With one friend alive and one not, but both in pain, Kirk attempts to help his friends by stealing the Enterprise and defying Starfleet's Genesis quarantine. However, the Klingons have also learned of the Genesis Device and race to meet Kirk in a deadly rendezvous. I think that The Search for Spock is easily the most underrated of the Star Trek movies. I loved it so much and was quite surprised to see it considered one of the weaker films but for me, it ranks up there with the more beloved in the franchise. There are many rollercoasters of emotions throughout this adventure as it manages to evoke them all from its barrel of laughs with the comedic witty banter to its more tear-jerking side with its frequent tragedies. Following on shortly after the climactic events of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), we are instantly transported back to the badly damaged Enterprise as it limps home. Having the film continue straight after the last one was a great choice as we explore some of the events that before seemed to have little significance but are now being fully expanded upon. Opening with someone breaking into Spock's quarters was brilliant as it set an air of mystery as we see Kirk investigate. Grabbing the intruder, we find out it is none other than Dr. McCoy who speaks of needing help getting home to Vulcan foreshadowing the later reveal. During the climax of the last film, Spock gave his essence to McCoy. It leads to so many hilarious moments with McCoy acting like Spock from questioning things as not logical to attempting to use Vulcan powers on people to no avail was incredibly funny. My favourite sequence in the whole film is easily the stealing of the Enterprise. All members of the crew chime into a plan to help McCoy. Each member is given time to shine in this fun scene full of comedic elements. Once aboard the still-damaged vessel, they start reversing out of the space dock in a tense moment with the doors still closed that open just in the nick of time. It was also nice to see the return of Spock's father, Sarek, who appeared in the original Star Trek (TV Series 1966-1969). He brought some very moving scenes in his mind-melding with Kirk. The scene displayed a heap of emotive imagery with Sarek repeating Spock's final words as the camera lingers on Kirk's eye. Seeing it widen and well up was heart-rending as he relives the still-open wound of his friend's death. If you don't want any spoilers then skip past the red. *Spoilers* Unfortunately, this movie only throws more at Kirk, really getting personal for him. From the destruction of the Enterprise to the tragic murder of his son, whom he had recently reconciled with, there is no end to his suffering. David's death came as a real shock to me and was a big gut punch for Kirk. The Enterprise's self-destruction was a huge moment, in which ILM outdid themselves with the special effects. Seeing her slowly burn, revealing parts of the inside before exploding entirely, plummeting to Genesis was heartbreaking. Our villains, the Klingons, also make a return from the series being led by, an interesting casting choice, Christopher Lloyd, who was a menacing and powerful opponent. He has a grand face-off with Kirk on the burning hellish Genesis, which was extremely cool. Our adventure ends with the return of Spock, slowly regaining his memory as he is surrounded by his overcome friends. A magical end to this journey full of hardships. Overall, I don't care what people say, I love The Search for Spock. It is so underrated with countless moments to enjoy and get emotional too. With outstanding effects and phenomenal acting, there is no end to quality in this beautiful feature. Also, take a look at the next journey in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), my all-time favourite Trek movie!

Runtime: 1h 45m

Director: Leonard Nimoy

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

Related Sites and Media:

Movie Trailer:

My DVD Boxset: