cjhora

This movie was an anachronism when it was made in 1965--It was WAY above the level that audience sophistication demanded in those days. Although science has moved forward since then(plate tectonics,etc.), it does not detract from the essential viability of this film. For a Sci-Fi movie involving the apocalypse, this story hangs together well and requires relatively little "suspension of disbelief." The plot builds suspense very nicely and at an increasingly ominous and break-neck pace. Typical of British films, the script is rather well written, and Andrews, Moore and Scott(the latter two were married in real life), as well as the usual cast of Britishers do a wonderful acting job. Special effects are excellent and include many convincing shots of real volcanic events. The scene in which the fissures converge is awe-inspiring, though the final massive event could benefit from modern CGI effects. The science--I should know--is not all that bad! The musical score is first-rate, and adds greatly to the movie's charm, building suspense beautifully. Fire up the microwave, get the popcorn, settle down and watch this one--IF you can find a copy!!!

Growing up in the 50's, I got to see the great--and not so great--cliffhangers every weekend (for only 10 cents!). King of the Rocketmen was always a fantastic hero, with his legendary flying suit. BUT that was before I got to see the Copperhead battle Dr. Satan on television every Sunday morning. This is one of the most well constructed serials that Republic ever produced. Cianelli, as Dr. Satan, is a consummate villain, one who has no vague motivations--this guy is evil from the word "go". Robert Wilcox as hero Bob Wayne is EXTREMELY capable in the role. Not only can he act--something very difficult with terse, action dominated serial scripts--but he is a fine athlete. Some of the acrobatic leaps and takedowns are the best ever put on film. The plot hangs together nicely, something that is unusual in 4 hour long marathons. But what really puts the icing on the cake is the terrific variety of cliffhanger chapter endings that Republic has employed in this serial. They are all superbly done, with plausible escapes that don't insult the viewer's intelligence. In fact, many of these were used in later serials as stock footage in order to save money (a real strength at Republic). Crisp, snappy direction by Witney and English puts the cap on a GREAT serial.

Mirage is the movie they were trying to make when they filmed Mister Buddwing. However, Mirage has a better cast,more sympathetic characters, and a greater "mystery" to be solved. The dialog is very snappy--so much so, that a second viewing lends more appreciation for the writing. Peck and Matthau are priceless together, but Diane Baker comes off as a little unsure of how to play her part. The scenes that are PRICELESS, though are those in the consulting psychiatrist's office. This is a classic way to get a story told, but it is done so beautifully that the psychiatrist ends up practically stealing the movie! The plot thread that remains dangling is certainly non-trivial, but we are left believing it is in good hands. Black and white filming in New York City proves very effective and George Kennedy is the perfect, obligatory heavy.