HiLander-4

The stars are for the stars, and there are plenty of them. This horror/comedy tour-de-force boasts not only Price's grand self-parody, but a dream cast of British movie greats in juicy cameo/supporting roles. The production values are dated, and the story predictable yet this somehow makes the performances that much more impressive. Even Price's wife, Coral Browne gets in on the act as one of his victims. The employment of Shakespearian themes in the murders provides the villain with ample opportunity to chew up scenery. If you're looking for vivid color, wide-screen cinematography and over-the-top CGI gore, go elsewhere. On the other hand, if you appreciate the AIP films of the 60's and 70's, then you should definitely see this one.

For a long time, I refused to watch this flic because I thought it was just a vehicle for "teen idol" Grieco, and I usually don't enjoy stories contrived to promote TV to films career moves. Then I saw "The Man Who Knew too Little" with Bill Murray, laughed out loud, and decided to try this similar, mistaken-for-a-spy spoof. I'm glad. The plot is artless, totally ridiculous & full of contradictions. Yet, the terrific cast carries the implausible story to entertaining heights with scenery-chewing, tongue-in-cheek glee. A really hot sex scene turns into a gorefest, the villains are outrageous, and the heroics are spectacular. WB threw sfx money at this one.

I especially enjoyed Robin Bartlett as the "French Teacher".