kevin_robbins

I recently watched the documentary Doomed: The Untold Story of Roger Corman's The Fantastic Four (2015). The film chronicles the making of the 1990s Fantastic Four, produced on a shoestring budget, under a tight deadline, and with plenty of hope from its cast and crew. But just as filming wrapped, politics, Marvel's financial ambitions, and a quiet payoff ensured the movie would never see an official release.

Written and directed by Marty Langford-in his only directorial project-the documentary features Roger Corman (The Raven), Lloyd Kaufman (The Toxic Avenger), Oley Sassone (Fast Getaway II), Michael Bailey Smith (The Hills Have Eyes), and Joseph Culp (Apollo 13).

What makes this so compelling is how effectively it reunites the original cast, director, producers, and special effects team to tell this bizarre story. The underground copy of the film is already legendary in comic-con circles, and after watching this, I'm determined to track one down. The documentary clearly lays out how and why the project was shelved, and while the film itself is likely terrible-and may have hurt Marvel's 2000s relaunch-I still believe it deserved a chance at release. Corman directing a superhero movie is something I absolutely need in my life, as are some of the other unrealized projects teased here from directors like Wes Craven.

For all the criticism it gets for being low-budget, The Thing's costume looked fantastic, the classic '90s Corman sets were pure nostalgia, and the backstory on the studio was both hilarious and a little depressing. I was impressed by the cast's determination to bring the film to market, as well as by the sheer lengths (and payouts) the studios went to in order to bury it. This is a classic Hollywood story of hope, money, and compromise-one that's played out countless times and will happen again.

In conclusion, Doomed: The Untold Story of Roger Corman's The Fantastic Four offers a fascinating glimpse into a little-known chapter of Hollywood history. I'd score it 7.5/10 and strongly recommend it to fans of the superhero genre.

I recently rewatched Two Mules for Sister Sarah (1970) on Prime. The storyline follows a drifter who encounters a nun in the Old West just as she's about to be raped and killed. He rescues her and reluctantly agrees to help her on her journey, despite her irritating habits and steadfast beliefs. As their travels continue, both the nun's and the cowboy's true intentions slowly come to light.

This picture is directed by Don Siegel (Dirty Harry) and stars Clint Eastwood (Escape from Alcatraz), Shirley MacLaine (The Apartment), Manolo Fábregas (The Candy Man), and Armando Silvestre (Night of the Bloody Apes).

The film pulls you into the western genre right from the start, with its outstanding opening theme, authentic sets, period attire, and sweeping backdrops. The first scene is gripping, and-let's face it-a stick of dynamite always adds excitement. Eastwood and MacLaine deliver top-tier performances, with their yin-and-yang personalities and sharp dialogue keeping the tone lively and unpredictable. While the plot may seem straightforward at times, unexpected twists and a surprisingly unique love story emerge. The finale, set at a fortified base and filled with shootouts and explosions, delivers a satisfying and well-staged climax.

In conclusion, Two Mules for Sister Sarah is a distinctive and well-executed entry in the western genre that's worth your time. I would score it a solid 7.5/10.

I recently rewatched C. H. U. D. (1984) on Tubi. The storyline follows a series of mysterious disappearances among New York City's homeless population-cases the police largely ignore. A journalist, his girlfriend, and their friend who runs a homeless shelter decide to investigate, only to uncover a conspiracy that could spill onto the city streets at any moment...

This picture is directed by Douglas Cheek (Empires: Peter & Paul and the Christian Revolution), in his directorial debut, and stars John Heard (Home Alone), Daniel Stern (Home Alone), Kim Greist (Manhunter), Christopher Curry (Flags of Our Fathers), and Sam McMurray (Raising Arizona).

This is a quintessential 80s cult classic-gritty, atmospheric, and very "New York." The concept of both the homeless and mutated creatures inhabiting the city's underground is instantly intriguing, and the film's grimy texture perfectly complements its monsters and subterranean setting. The acting is stronger than you might expect for this type of horror flick, and while the creatures don't get as much screen time as I'd like, their design and presentation are top-tier. I do wish there were more kills, but the ones we get are enjoyable. The finale is a highlight, and the soundtrack and background score are pure horror gold.

In conclusion, C. H. U. D. isn't perfect, but it remains an iconic 80s horror gem. I'd score it a solid 6.5-7/10.