Back to the Future
1985, Amblin Entertainment et al
Is it a comedy, or is it science fiction? Tough call; I just made an arbitrary choice. Robert Zemeckis made a name for himself—and made Michael J. Fox a superstar—with a sleeper megahit that needs no introduction. While I admire the brilliance of the story as well as the performances, straight-up comedy generally doesn't hold my interest as well as more subtle, campy irreverence—Guardians of the Galaxy, as an example. But I do like Christopher Lloyd, as well as DeLoreans...
DKS 12/17/17
GRUMPY OLD FART-O-METER® Rating:
Back to the Future II
1989, Amblin Entertainment et al
After the surprise success of Back to the Future, a sequel was all but inevitable. But while the film is competently produced, the franchise feels stale already; whereas the first film was driven more its by characters, the second was more reliant on madcap slapstick. Yawn. Christopher Lloyd is perhaps the only reason to see it.
BTW, much was made of the hoverboard; several huge corporations are currently investing millions in R&D to make a real one. Seriously?
DKS 12/17/17
GRUMPY OLD FART-O-METER® Rating:
Back to the Future III
1990, Amblin Entertainment et al
Once more we return to the well for yet another tired sequel. Somehow, even though it was shot concurrently with Part II, Part III was a much bigger success, both critically and financially. Sorry I can't drum up more enthusiasm.
DKS 12/17/17
GRUMPY OLD FART-O-METER® Rating: