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How about one out in left field?

68.1.131.10
Posted on October 13, 2007 at 21:03:53
wazoo
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Joined: December 6, 2006
 Recently there was a reference to 2001: A Space Odyssey - one of my favorite films and my introduction to the concept of AI. Tonight, I watched another favorite - THX-1138. I wonder how many others out there would agree that these two films top the list of the best Science Fiction movies of all time?


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

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RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 13, 2007 at 22:11:37
MaggieLover
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 Wazoo. You're my man. Two of my favorites. I would add "Forbidden Planet" (1956), and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" (1956). The special effects in Forbidden Planet were very good considering they predated Star Wars by 30 years.


Maggies, because you can never be too thin!

Mark

 

"Silent Running", posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:29:42
mhardy6647
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  Since: October 23, 2016
 A personal fave. Directed by Douglas Trumbull (who also worked on 2001 IIRC).

A great, quirky little movie; essentially a solo turn for Bruce Dern, with fine (for the times) special effects and the literal forerunners to C3PO to boot.

It'd probably be a big hit if released today. Heck, they'd probably win a Nobel Peace Prize for it! :-)


all the best,
mrh

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:45:43
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
Location: Oregon
Joined: May 18, 2005
 There are so few really good science fiction films IMO!

2001 would be at the top of the list, but sharing that spot with Tarkovsky's "Solaris".

The Day the Earth Stood Still is near the top for me. I like THX1138 a lot, but I'm not sure where I'd place it. It's brilliant, but drags at times and is a little uneven IMO. My favorite line goes something like this:

"What's wrong?"

"I think I'm dying."

"Can you be more specific?"

There are a number of good films that aren't strictly Sci-Fi, but have strong elements of it, like Brazil, Slaughterhouse Five, A Clockwork Orange, and The Sacrifice (another Tarkovsky).

Here's one I really liked you probably haven't seen: The Girl From Monday.

 

2000 Presidential Election gets my vote. nt, posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:38:12
J Harris


 
nt

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 13:13:42
Peter Gunn
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 Well, "sci-fi" essentially revolves around the theme that technology threatens man, either because it itself has run amok or some evil people (or aliens) are using it.

For that reason I would submit my favorite, Dr. Strangelove.

Yes, it is set in the cold war, but just 30 years before then it would have been viewed as sci fi and some people have submitted 2001 here, and we already have eclipsed much of the technology shown in that movie, so I think mine is a valid choice.

There has never been a wittier, better cast, more cutting and delicious movie ever made. George C Scott is brilliant. Sellers is sublime. Every line is a gem, from the flouridation of water to rampant sexual innuendo.

"Look Dimitri, I am just as capable of being sorry as you, so don't say you're sorrier than me. Of course I'm sorry. I'm just calling to tell you something awful has happened, something dreadful, but it's not an unfriendly call.....of course it's not. Listen.... if it was an unfriendly call, you probably wouldn't have even got it..."


It's all about the music...

 

Cat People and Blade Runner, posted on October 14, 2007 at 14:41:01
jbwebs
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 I like 2001 and THX, but for sheer emotional impact, the modern version of Cat People with Nasty Kinski and Malcom McDowells and Blade Runner with Daryl Hannah as Pris, "your basic pleasure model", are at the top of my list.

 

The Quiet Earth, posted on October 14, 2007 at 16:09:38
stevenk
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Posts: 351
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 nt

 

2001., posted on October 14, 2007 at 16:44:25
MarkNC


 
Will go along w/ 2001, though the book has a more comprehendable ending.

 

'2001' and it's impact..., posted on October 14, 2007 at 17:36:24
Kiefer74.1
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 I may not be a big Sci-Fi fan, but do love '2001' as well a a few others that escape my mind at the moment. Off-topic, but 'A Clockwork Orange' has almost always been in my top ten.

Even decision to buy my 1st pair of Maggies was in part because of that movie, the monolith, and a strange 'experience' I had years after watching the movie. There are no doubt other speakers that are more accurate or have other attributes the Maggies don't have, but I have no regrets about any Maggie purchase.

Funny how many of these sci-fi movies (and t.v. shows) have prompted people to create these so called items from well into the future that we have today.

Regards,
Jon





-I don't preview my posts so if I've misprinted something, my bad-

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 19:42:57
HarlemAirShaft
 How about the original "War of the Worlds" from 1953?

There are SO many great ones, hard to choose just two. I can't argue with anything posted so far. Just wanted to add a little spice.

Now, let's move on to the worst. What comes in second after "Plan 9"?

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 20:28:49
hifi Buster
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Posts: 156
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 O Wells in the "The Lathe of Heaven".

Silent Running is my second fave.

Nice thread, enjoyed.

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 21:19:00
CAM3XL
Audiophile

Posts: 139
Location: Baltimore
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 My vote is for Logans Run and Soilent Green.
Whatever sounds good...do that.

 

thanks everyone, posted on October 15, 2007 at 05:42:08
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
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 I know this thread was off topic (hence the left field comment). I enjoyed all the responses and will soon have a few movies to watch that I either haven't seen in ages or, in a few cases, have never seen.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

If someone else already mentioned it...., posted on October 15, 2007 at 07:30:02
Rod H.
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 somehow I missed it, but what about "The Man Who Fell to Earth"?

Rod

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 15, 2007 at 08:51:43
Dawnrazor
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 I wouldn't rank it as anywhere near the best, but the movie Hardware is pretty cool given its low budget. I just dig the post apocalyptic feeling and the government conspiracy angle.

I think it won a few awards too.

One of my favorite bands lead singer plays Nomad in the film, and some of their songs have a similar feeling of the movie, and cover the same themes. So, I am a bit bias I suppose.

 

Dark Star...yee haw!, posted on October 15, 2007 at 18:21:15
jjcarr
 Gotta love a movie with the line:
"...do you think we'll ever discover any intelligent life?"
"Who cares!"

 

Blade Runner gets my vote., posted on October 13, 2007 at 23:00:12
Webnick
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Posts: 925
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 .

 

Add "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and you've got it. /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 05:35:35
HenryH

Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

Star Wars, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:22:21
wazoo
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 Actually the effects in 'Star Wars' get in the way of the story - it's all flashy and really cool to watch, but the story takes a back seat to the special effects. (In a way, that reminds me of the multi-channel music with which I had a brief fascination.) That is why I would put 'THX' on a completely different level as a George Lucas film - the effects in that film are minimal; the (Orwellian) story is powerful and disturbing. Walter Murch makes brilliant use of sound and his inventiveness is simply off the scale - it is a total masterpiece.

'The Forbidden Planet' deserves a spot near the top of the list for much the same reason. Most SciFi movies of the 50s were cheesy and silly, but that film's greatest strength is that it tells a human story. The special effects were amazing for its time, but they existed in support of the story, not in place of one.

'2001' is simply without equal in the genre.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

RE: Add "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and you've got it. /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 07:06:46
gumbedamit


 
The Day the Earth Stood Still
Blade Runner
Forbidden Planet
War of the Worlds ( The Original)
Them

 

Absolutely, posted on October 14, 2007 at 07:48:41
E-Stat
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  Since: April 5, 2002
 One of my favorites. If I'm ever in a jam with a robot who decides to raise his visor at me, I'm ready.

Gort! Klaatu barada nikto.

rw

 

RE: Add "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and you've got it. /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 07:20:46
MaggieLover
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 The list is getting better. All favs of mine except Blade Runner which I honestly ave only seen pieces of. I really should see the whole thing.

Maggies, because you can never be too thin!

Mark

 

RE: Add "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and you've got it. /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 07:27:52
MaggieLover
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 On second thought, although I really like the movie, I don't think Them is in quite the same class as the others.

There is one more I thought of, The Thing (1951) with James Arness as the alien. A thriller as I recall.

Maggies, because you can never be too thin!

Mark

 

RE: Add "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and you've got it. /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:09:31
gumbedamit


 
Most of you probably have not seen this one.

Quatermass and the Pit

But then again what does any of this have to do with Maggies

 

you're right, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:23:59
wazoo
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 I've never heard of that one.

This thread has absolutely nothing to do with Maggies; I intended it as a diversion (let's not go there). On the other hand, the two films I mentioned are also audio masterpieces which can be enjoyed on Maggies!


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

Quatermass II and The Quatermass Xperiment were both good., posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:45:23
HenryH
 Love old Brian Donlevy movies.


Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

Quatermass looks interesting, posted on October 14, 2007 at 11:51:25
wazoo
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 I confess to never hearing of it (at least I don't remember hearing of it).

Thanks


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

AKA "Five Million Years to Earth",, posted on October 15, 2007 at 09:39:23
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
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 "The Creeping Unknown", and "Enemy From Space. That's too many different names for the same film, isn't it? IIRC there were maybe four Quatermass films, a couple before this one, and one after. We have seen at least three that I recall, and this one was easily the best IMO.

Rod

 

Totally Agree, posted on October 14, 2007 at 23:33:45
MaggieLover
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Posts: 1648
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 We definitely needed a diversion from the last few days. It was a great idea.

Maggies, because you can never be too thin!

Mark

 

RE: "Silent Running" - Yes!, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:43:18
Webnick
Audiophile

Posts: 925
Location: So. California
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 It had a really good environmental message. Glad someone else remembers it.

 

oh yes, posted on October 14, 2007 at 08:43:21
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
Location: Middle GA
Joined: December 6, 2006
 That was a good one! I haven't seen it in years; it's bound to be on DVD by now - I'll go check in a minute (and order it if I find it, thank you very much). Anyway, it was a bit quirky and certainly low-budget, but that's part of its charm and the subtext of the story is fairly chilling.

I'd put it on a par with such films as 'The Andromeda Strain' or 'Soylent Green'.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

Weren't two of the robots named Huey and Louie? /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:49:48
HenryH

Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

Zardoz and other cult films...., posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:27:38
Rod H.
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 I don't know why, but as soon as you mentioned "Soylent Green" I thought of "Zardoz"! No, it's not a great film, but worth seeing at least once because of it's cult film status.

Oh, and of course "The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra" and "American Astronaut"!!

Rod

 

Solaris, posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:05:45
wazoo
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 I was enthralled by 'Solaris', but my wife didn't get much out of it. I've tried to get her to watch it again - I've watched it several more times. In my opinion, it exemplifies what 'real' science fiction should be, while movies like 'Alien' are really just monster films that take place in space.

Have you seen the re-release of THX-1138? The added bits not only help update the film, but are very cool.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

RE: Solaris, posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:22:13
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
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 The last time, which I believe was about the third time I saw THX1138, we watched the recent re-release. Don't get me wrong, I really *do* like the film, it's just that I get a bit picky sometimes!

My wife has tried to watch the original Tarkovsky version of Solaris three times, and each time she fell asleep during the infamous drive to the launch pad scene which goes on forever. She falls asleep when a passenger in a real car too though!

Yes, I also prefer my Sci-Fi to be more based on the clash between technology and the human mind, than the clash with space monsters.

Have you seen Gattaca? It's been a while, but IIRC it might be one you'd appreciate.

Rod

 

seen it - have it - like it, posted on October 14, 2007 at 09:39:06
wazoo
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 'Gattaca' is a chilling exploration of eugenics. I liked it very much, but there are a few things about it that get under my skin. Absolute genetic determinism (being able to predict the day on which an individual will die of cardiac arrest) completely ignores the influence of one's environment. If I were born with a genetic predisposition to heart problems, whether or not I actually eventually suffer from them depends on how I live. Otherwise, the movie is excellent, with a solid plot and great acting.

I agree completely and am bothered by the fact that so few decent SciFi films exist. I was actually thinking of the remake of 'Solaris' (with George Clooney) - I thought it was very well done.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

speaking of cult SciFi films, posted on October 14, 2007 at 11:27:39
wazoo
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 We can't forget about 'A Boy and His Dog'.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

and another thing...Zardoz, posted on October 14, 2007 at 11:43:44
wazoo
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 I've never seen it, but I will soon enough. I had no idea 'Soylent Green' was available on DVD - ordered them together from Amazon for $13. Well, I'm actually building up an order - thanks to some replies to my original post!


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

RE: seen it - have it - like it, posted on October 14, 2007 at 10:05:32
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
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 I think the same things that bothered you bothered me about Gattaca, but I just chose to just let it go.

The remake of Solaris got a bad rap I think. People who loved the original tended to bash it because it was, well, a remake and a hurry-up abbreviated version at that. People who had never seen the original thought the remake was slow!

They both carry the same powerful message.

Rod

 

Huey, Dewey, and Louie, posted on October 14, 2007 at 10:02:51
mhardy6647
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  Since: October 23, 2016
 Yes, they were re-monikered by Dern's character after he went on the lam.

TMI dep't: I usually get misty-eyed when I watch the last scene of the movie, with the droid watering the plants with the beat-up watering can and Joan Baez singing one of the Peter Schickele tunes that comprised the sparse soundtrack.


all the best,
mrh

 

I loved the poker games! /nt\, posted on October 14, 2007 at 10:09:11
HenryH

Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

same reaction, posted on October 14, 2007 at 10:43:27
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
Location: Middle GA
Joined: December 6, 2006
 I don't think it's anything to regret confessing. It even gets back to a topic germain to the AA - the use of music to manipulate our emotions. Sure the scene is touching, but pile Joan's singing on top of it and you really haven't a chance ;^ )

BTW I went to Amazon and ordered it - thanks!



"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

letting it go, posted on October 14, 2007 at 10:37:09
wazoo
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 That's the thing that separates the weat from the chaff in my view - when one doesn't keep getting hit with things to just let go. Don't get me wrong; I still really liked 'Gattaca' - I bought it after renting it and have watched it several times since. In many respects, it's the perfect scifi movie - great drama. In all other respects, the plot is cohesive and the concepts being probed are important and immediate.

Believe it or not, I have never seen the original 'Solaris' - a situation I need to redress (and I shall). I rarely care for remakes - they rarely capture the essence of the originals. I have no idea how well the version I saw mirrored its namesake, but I was completely absorbed by it. I suppose it is a love story in a science fiction film, but that aspect of it didn't smack you in the face - part of the charm of having it told via flashbacks. I loved the substory of the quirky crewmember (or is he?(Snow?)) and the actor's performance of it. I'm rambling though...yeah, powerful film.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

Kubrick, posted on October 14, 2007 at 14:12:56
Rod H.
Audiophile

Posts: 1919
Location: Oregon
Joined: May 18, 2005
 I forgot about "Strangelove" and it's one of the few DVDs that I've actually bought!

Actually it's arguably one of the best war films, and one of the best comedies ever made too.

Kubrick gets a pretty good score for Sci-Fi, having made three of the best if you include "A Clockwork Orange" as also being in the genre.

Rod

 

I always considered it a comedy, posted on October 14, 2007 at 14:33:20
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
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 On my lists (hey, it's just the way I have *my* lists arranged - we can each put these things wherever we like), 'Dr. Strangelove' stands among the top five comedies of all time. Kubrick was one heck of a director; it's a shame he is gone. Sellers is positively brilliant, as is Scott, as is... It's hard to pick a favorite line, but the bit about, "No fighting in the War Room!" always kills me. We've recently touched on one of the others - Mel Brooks' 'Blazing Saddles'.

I suppose it fits into the genre of SciFi. It certainly works as a better SciFi vehicle than the myriad monster movies in SciFi guise. Your justification is sound - it's all a matter of perspective. As Rod mentioned, that would drag 'A Clockwork Orange' into the mix giving Kubrick three masterworks in the genre.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 14, 2007 at 18:28:32
gumbedamit


 
Funny thing about this movie is that it's the spoof of one of my all time greatest movies, "FAILSAFE", but Dr. Strangelove, aka How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb was released prior to FAILSAFE.

 

nice one, posted on October 15, 2007 at 05:32:08
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
Location: Middle GA
Joined: December 6, 2006
 I had completely forgotten about that film, but now that you mention it, some memory of it is returning. I remember liking it (so how did I forget it?). The 'last person on earth' thing has been done several times, but this one was rather well constructed - even more so because the main character (okay, the only character for much of the film) was part of the cause. I'm going to have to get it so I can watch it again - thanks!


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

Just saw "Robot Monsters"..., posted on October 15, 2007 at 07:16:24
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
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 and can't imagine too many worse films than it!

Rod

 

another one I haven't seen, posted on October 15, 2007 at 05:37:20
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
Location: Middle GA
Joined: December 6, 2006
 'The Lathe of Heaven' looks interesting. I've never seen it, but I will now - thank you.


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

RE: nice one, posted on October 15, 2007 at 06:30:26
gumbedamit


 
I didn't see "The Quiet Earth" but in 1959 Harry Belafone did
The World, the Flesh and the Devil

Inger Stevens
Mel Ferrer

There were so many elements to that movie, (racial, sexual) and at that time, very controversial...great movie

 

RE: Just saw "Robot Monsters"..., posted on October 15, 2007 at 22:23:37
HarlemAirShaft
 Rod,

That is without a doubt a bad film, but if you haven't seen "Plan 9 From Outer Space", directed by the "legendary" Ed Wood, then you simply haven't seen bad. It's SOOOOOO bad it is comical. Makes the whole Japanese Godzilla series look like Oscar material.

Still, "Robot Monsters" is an excellent "bad" choice.

 

s-t-r-a-n-g-e film, posted on October 15, 2007 at 07:41:55
wazoo
Audiophile

Posts: 4062
Location: Middle GA
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 It's pretty long too, but it's just so odd. While we're on films of this type, how about 'The Illustrated Man'?


"Jazz is not dead - it just smells funny" FZ♬

 

Kinda partial to "Invasion of the Bee Girls" myself. /nt\, posted on October 15, 2007 at 08:15:05
HenryH

Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

RE: s-t-r-a-n-g-e film, posted on October 15, 2007 at 09:27:00
Rod H.
Audiophile

Posts: 1919
Location: Oregon
Joined: May 18, 2005
 Although "The Illustrated Man" isn't usually considered a very good film, I have seen it a couple times and enjoyed it. It's very dark and atmospheric, and I always get a kick out of Steiger's characterizations even though they are often way over the top.

I'd like to get some of the music from the sound track to "TMWFTE". It's out of print, but the music is from a Jazz Fusion album called "Freedom is Frightening" featuring Stomu Yamashta and at least one of the member of Soft Machine I think.

Rod

 

Don't know that one but howsabout .... :-)), posted on October 15, 2007 at 14:40:07
andyr
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Posts: 12553
Location: Melbourne
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 ... "Earth Girls are Easy" starring a hilarious Jeff Goldblum, a very young Jim Carrey and the always gorgeous Geena Davis!! :-))

Regards,

Andy

 

RE: s-t-r-a-n-g-e film, posted on October 15, 2007 at 13:53:55
MaggieLover
Audiophile

Posts: 1648
Location: Central New Jersey
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 Quite different than the book though.

Maggies, because you can never be too thin!

Mark

 

AFAIK, there were only 2 Donlevy Quatermass flicks., posted on October 16, 2007 at 12:42:37
HenryH
 "Quatermass 2: The Enemy From Space" and "The Quatermass Xperiment"
There were several other quatermass films staring other actors as Professor Bernard Quatermass, but Donlevy was the best.


Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

 

Yes, I have...., posted on October 16, 2007 at 07:10:33
Rod H.
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Posts: 1919
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 seen "Plan 9" and several other films by Wood, as well as the (excellent IMO) film "Ed Wood" starring Johnny Depp. It's been many years though, and so the badness of them isn't as fresh in my mind as "Robot Monsters" I guess.

Rod

 

RE: '2001' and it's impact..., posted on October 26, 2007 at 12:01:09
rico
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Posts: 4353
Location: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
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 I have had every video incarnation of this, my favorite film of all time. I am expecting the latest two disc DVD remaster any day now (street date was 10/23).

 

I intensely disliked "2001.", posted on October 26, 2007 at 13:32:03
jsm
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Posts: 1887
Location: SF Bay Area
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 Having been interested in science fiction since 1950, I found this movie pretentious and disjointed in its plot. I did like the special effects very much though, but that couldn't make up for the rest for me. I watched it several times and concluded it must be me who's weird, as I didn't change my mind and I am in a extreme minority. People have told me that I have to read the book, and then I'll really like the movie. That approach doesn't cut it for me.

I did like "The Day the Earth Stood Still" very much, and its message is still very relevant. I also liked "Forbidden Planet" quite a bit. Both of these are not very subtle, though, with many typical Hollywood-type production values. And I wasn't familiar with "The Tempest" when I saw the latter movie, so I didn't need the "book" to help. I also liked "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea," though I'm not sure everyone would classify that as science fiction. I would also add the original "The Thing" as one of my all-time favorites, certainly one of the scariest when I young.

But I don't know how anyone can leave off the original "Star Wars" as a contender for one of the greatest science fiction movies ever made, unless you consder it simply a western in disguise. It is wiithout question the most entertaining movie of this kind I have ever seen. It's major shortcoming is the basic bad guys- good guys plot for those that expect some profound philosophical ideas to be explored in any science fiction book or movie.

"Alien" is in many ways what I believe to be the most realistic portrayal of what life on a far-future spaceship might be like. There's none of the grand posing as in Star Treck or all other movies. The crew sits around the table discussing mundane topics like how much vacation time they have coming or salary or benefits- I can't remember the details. The fact that they are in interstellar space doesn't change them from the same kind of people who are on a merchant marine ship. These are just people doing a job.

Joe

 

RE: How about one out in left field?, posted on October 26, 2007 at 14:03:15
terlecki85@comcast.net


 
My fav Si Fi movie.
“A Boy and his Dog.â€Â

Has anyone mentioned “Planet of the Apes?â€Â

Science and so far still fiction,
“On the Beachâ€Â

DirtAuger

 

"Earth Girls Are Easy", posted on October 26, 2007 at 14:37:16
DWPC
Audiophile

Posts: 18836
Location: Southern California
Joined: February 14, 2002
 with a bikinied Geena Davis in her prime in about half the scenes. The heavier sci-fi stuff pales....


Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy - WB Yeats

 

I have to agree with your wife; I've often called it Snorlaris, and both my wife & I ..., posted on October 26, 2007 at 16:35:09
Audiophilander
Audiophile

Posts: 30200
Location: Fort Worth (D/FW Metroplex)
Joined: March 31, 2000
 ...have compared the Russian version to a massive dose of Sominex. The endless tunnel sequence is one of the most boring sections of wasted film stock in history, subjectively speaking of course.

>>> "In my opinion, it exemplifies what 'real' science fiction should be, while movies like 'Alien' are really just monster films that take place in space." <<<

Well, no offense, but I have to differ with your impressions even though I agree that good science fiction doesn't have to gravitate toward monster films to be relevent or involving. I consider AI-Artificial Intelligence, Charlie, The Abyss, Metropolis ('27), Clockwork Orange, etc., to be excellent science fiction films based upon thought provoking concepts, but AFAIC, Solaris (both versions, but especially "Tvarski's" original take on Stanislaw Lem's seminal work) is no more than an excuse for Directorial masturbation.

Respectfully,
AuPh

 

Don't forget Westworld nt, posted on October 26, 2007 at 17:10:56
Daryl Zero
Audiophile

Posts: 742
Location: Southwest
Joined: July 9, 2004
 ddd

 

I'm with you on "Alien"..., posted on October 26, 2007 at 23:23:18
mpathus
Audiophile

Posts: 3115
Location: Eastern USA
Joined: June 19, 2004
 ...a world changer for me, does much more for me than "Star Wars".

It took 7+ viewings over 20 years to get into the mind "2001". I remember the theatrical release leaving me twisting in the wind, but that may be the point -- we have yet to evolve to the point of seeing outside the box. Also several screenings of "2010" helped put things into perspective.

Like to mention: "Dune" -- love epics.

 

Wow! Zardoz..., posted on October 27, 2007 at 06:44:44
DeeCee
Audiophile

Posts: 769
Joined: July 6, 2001
 Haven't thought of that picture in years... I think I killed the film premise when it just started when I leaned to a friend and said... Well I won't say, but let's say I guessed the obviousness of the film title.

For the remainder of the film I kinda watched with my mouth open trying to get my head wrapped around how truly bad this film really was.

At least the movie "Battle Beyond the Stars" was so goofy it was fun to watch (and a bargain at a $1 during a midnight screening!)

I have NO idea why that film popped into my head...

Good times, good times.
-DeeCee

 

RE: seen it - have it - like it, posted on October 27, 2007 at 14:23:18
David Aiken
Audiophile

Posts: 5858
Location: Brisbane
Joined: September 25, 1999
 You said "I liked it very much, but there are a few things about it that get under my skin. Absolute genetic determinism (being able to predict the day on which an individual will die of cardiac arrest) completely ignores the influence of one's environment."

I think that point is taken up in Gattaca. Ethan Hawke's character does not accept the 'determined view' of his fate and the main action of the film is, if I remember correctly, set after his genetically determined use-by date has expired. I think one of the strengths of the film is that it shows that it is what we do with our lives that counts, regardless of any genetic strengths or weaknesses that we may have, and that it is sometimes possible to achieve much more than would be expected, and equally possible to achieve much less than would be expected, from an interpretation of one's genetic profile.

And I agree: Gattaca is a very good movie.


David Aiken

 

me too, posted on October 27, 2007 at 14:44:53
Jazz Inmate
Audiophile

Posts: 63589
Location: Bay Area, California
Joined: April 5, 2000
 And I agree that Alien is one of the greatest sci fi movies, not so much because it has a more realistic feel--what is the point of being real in a movie about spaceships and monsters--but simply on the imagery and symbolism. The huge structure housing the alien eggs on the hostile planet looked like falopian tubes...the imagery of an arthropodic lifeform to impregnate a male and then use his body to give birth was brilliant...the image of nash stuffing a manual or was it girly mags down weaver´s throat...the way the suspense built up around a little furry cat and then we got the first view of the alien...the slime encountered by dallas just before the alien embraces him...the use of different sexes and the token African American in the film...it was all just done very well and in the context of the ship called mother it explored the concept of alien on many levels.
-------------

"I have found that if you love life, life will love you back." -Arthur Rubinstein (1887-1982)

 

You sound like a Barbarella fan, posted on October 27, 2007 at 17:30:42
Road Warrior
Audiophile

Posts: 21656
Location: Dallas
Joined: August 31, 2004
 Best thing Joan Fonda has ever done...

Things are looking great
And they're only getting better

 

Barbarella...no way, posted on October 27, 2007 at 18:03:24
DWPC
Audiophile

Posts: 18836
Location: Southern California
Joined: February 14, 2002
 Barbarella was in Fonda's Vadim phase...too campy and I'm-so-pretty precocious. EGAE was fun and just loaded with early talent; Davis plus Jeff Goldblum, Jim Carey, Damon Wayans.



Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy - WB Yeats

 

What, no one liked "The Matrix"?, posted on October 27, 2007 at 18:27:58
4season
 The Wachowskis really hit a grand slam with the first movie, and no wonder: A good mindf*ck story in the best P.K. Dick tradition, spectacular Chinese-style acrobatics, "Bullet Time" lifted right out of John Woo's "Hard Boiled" and more than a few straightforward homages to "Ghost In A Shell".

 

Definite advance in Cinema..., posted on October 27, 2007 at 20:18:48
mpathus
Audiophile

Posts: 3115
Location: Eastern USA
Joined: June 19, 2004
 ...that works as a trilogy.

 

I really liked Jane Fonda in "They Shoot Horses..., posted on October 27, 2007 at 20:24:43
mpathus
Audiophile

Posts: 3115
Location: Eastern USA
Joined: June 19, 2004
 ..Don't They?" and "Klute".

I've been searching for the "Klute" sound track for ages -- eerie '70's soundscape.

 

Pi: Faith in Chaos and The Andromedia Strain..., posted on October 27, 2007 at 21:01:39
JoeLip
 are two very interesting films. Too bad Pi is so grainy, but that is purely intentional. Absolutely fascinating, though. Rumor has is that The Andromedia Strain is loosely based around a near-miss at a bio-lab here in Northern Virginia. Scary stuff.

Cheers, Joe

 

Total recall, Spiderman, Aliens, etc…nt, posted on October 27, 2007 at 21:28:36
kootenay
Audiophile

Posts: 8448
Location: Calgary, Alberta
Joined: October 16, 2007
 .
If a thing's worth doing, it's worth doing well
(Proverb)

 

Oh, yeah -- almost forgot eXistenZ -- another mind-blower (NT), posted on October 28, 2007 at 16:08:49
JoeLip
 NT

 

RE: I have to agree with your wife; I've often called it Snorlaris, and both my wife & I ..., posted on October 28, 2007 at 20:11:50
Rod H.
Audiophile

Posts: 1919
Location: Oregon
Joined: May 18, 2005
 When someone really likes a film and mentions it over and over, it's understandable since it was obviously very impressive or important to him or her.

When someone really dislikes a film and mentions it over and over it seems pointless, especially to people who already appreciate the film and will never change their minds.

I can think of many films I didn't like initially, but later appreciated after another viewing or input from someone who liked it. I can't think of a single film I really liked, then later found I disliked because of another viewing or being "enlightened" by someone.

Rod

 

Good points, ..., posted on October 28, 2007 at 23:18:39
Audiophilander
Audiophile

Posts: 30200
Location: Fort Worth (D/FW Metroplex)
Joined: March 31, 2000
 ...but we've really tried with Solaris and while some may appreciate it's underlying subtleties it's a non-starter in our home. Certainly subjective opinions will differ, but as I pointed out earlier, we do agree with wazoo's wife and that's why I posted. She isn't alone in her opinion; both my wife and I share her frustration with this film.

>>> "When someone really dislikes a film and mentions it over and over it seems pointless, especially to people who already appreciate the film and will never change their minds." <<<

True enough, but sharing a profound dislike of Solaris that concurs with wazoo's wife's assessment isn't pointless IMO, it just confirms another informed opinion and there's nothing wrong with a mixture of differing views.

I really can't imagine changing anyone's mind here, but occasionally I like to lament the hours of my life that I lost trying to sit through that coma inducing flick. ;0)

Cheers,
AuPh

 

Night Watch. And now available rather cheaply with sequel Day Watch., posted on October 29, 2007 at 13:14:11
clarkjohnsen
Reviewer

Posts: 26843
Location: Massachusetts
Joined: May 5, 2000
 Russian wonderment, set in modern Moscow, in the Land of Evil, amongst witches and freaks, past and future... cartoon sequences... You really have to pay attention, but I love the first, haven't seen the second.

Hint: The Night Watchers are the good guys.

clark

 

Blade Runner and Alien, posted on October 30, 2007 at 00:24:28
Todd B.
Audiophile

Posts: 1026
Joined: February 13, 2001
 Ridley was on one hell of a roll.

__________________

Boycott Monster Cable

 

It's on my Deep Discount wish list awaiting the probable mid-November sale., posted on October 30, 2007 at 12:17:00
Audiophilander
Audiophile

Posts: 30200
Location: Fort Worth (D/FW Metroplex)
Joined: March 31, 2000
 For those who like to buy DVDs on the cheap (like me, especially when it comes to purchasing collections of movies and TV series), I'd recommend setting up an account and wish list in anticipation of the traditional November sale if you haven't already done so (DD's additional discount of 20% on top of their already steep price reductions and free shipping makes one's DVD collecting addiction a little less painful).

Cheers,
AuPh

This has been a public service announcement NOT paid for by Deep Discount (darn it! -grin).

 

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