kitticat-2

This movie is imperfect (it sags a bit in the third quarter, and some major factors in the plot are unexplained or confusing), but it is a great mix of fear and excitement. The cinematography is quite ahead of its time (the camera rarely sits still, yet remains unobtrusive), the drama is milked for maximum effect (and there are numerous sudden shocks), and the science-fiction/occult aspects of the film never overshadow the human element. Two similar movies, David Cronenberg's Scanners and The Brood, have more science and are more amusingly grotesque, but The Fury has a coolness and tightness to it that might just beat them both.

This exciting film contains some of the best special effects that the great Ray Harryhausen has ever created. The iron giant Talos and the climactic battle with the skeletons remain startlingly convincing to this day. There are some slightly cheesy moments in the drama, but in general these lesser-known actors do a fine job.

One should note that the story has been changed from the original sources. Medea, for example, does very little here except get rescued and do a sexy dance; there is almost nothing of her famed fierce temper and sorceric powers. But overall this is a great action film that offers a beautiful visualization of classical Greek mythology.

Actually, I'm a diehard Kevin Smith fan and I didn't find much to like here. There were funny moments - and, heck, a Stan Lee cameo - but nothing hilarious or memorable (except, perhaps, 'stink palm'). For a smutty potty-humor movie, Clerks is far superior, and for a more realistic and emotional movie, Chasing Amy is the winner. I give it a '4'.