Taz-59 Reviews

Human Target (1992)

Promising series that should have got second chance.

[15 April 2000]

When I first saw this t.v. series, I thought 'yes' another "Mission Impossible" or "MacGyver". However, the show about Christopher Chance, the man who helps and protects innocent victims from would-be assassins by living as them only lasted seven episodes.

While living on what appeared to be a B52 stealth (that was apparently invisible to radar and the authorities), Chance and his expert team of assistants would recreate the appearance of their clients using rubber face masks and voice trickery. While the 'human target' was impersonating the person who he had to protect, they would live in his plane with his crew until their problems were sorted. This was all done for the pricely some of one year's salary of their client.

This wasn't a bad show, and I can only assume that it didn't get the ratings. It was entertaining, though nowhere near the other series I mentioned. However, it did have some pretty unbelievable storylines. For example, the whole notion that a group of five people who 'did not exist' could live on a state of the art aircraft was fairly far fetched. As was the way Chance could manipulate his voice to sound exactly like his clients.

Anyway, it was good while it lasted. It's only a pity that it wasn't on any longer so it could develop itself a bit more.

The Wizard (1986–1987)

One the best 80's tv shows.

[15 April 2000]

I remember watching "The Wizard" when I was about five years old, and thinking it was one the best things around. Although I can't remember much of what it was about, the cool inventions that dwarf Simon McKay made were one of the things that made it so appealing. Another was the whole magical aspect of the show. McKay in the title role was a lovable character who had lots of cool toys that he made (some of which seemed to defy the laws of physics). He could also do some really outstanding feats like running up walls and walking through fire. Was he really a wizard??...who knows? All I know is that he was pretty cool.

"The Wizard" was a really great programme, and it's a pity it didn't last past the second season, because not too many people remember it.

The Strongest Man in the World (1975)

Hilarious, great fun.

[12 April 2000]

This is the final installment in the Medfield High comedy/fantasy trilogy, and is as good as the other two. Yet again Dexter Reilly stumbles upon an incredible scientific discovery which brings him and his friends into another wacky adventure.

Fortunately, the same great cast is involved again including Kurt Russell, Cesar Romero and the brilliant Joe Flynn. Plenty of laughs this time round ensure you're enjoy this movie every time you see it.

True Lies (1994)

Cameron and Arnie team up again.

[10 April 2000]

With the Terminator films under their belts, director Jim Cameron and tough guy Arnold Schwarzeneggar collaborate yet again to bring us their version of big-budget Bond, American style. With this film, Cameron decides to drop the dark themed movie look for an action blockbuster with a touch of comedy. However, where the action is top notch, the attempt at humour doesn't suit either Arnie or Cameron.

Overlong with a ridulous sub-plot, the writing here is grade B. What really works, though is the stuff these guys are used to doing...killing bad guys, and providing some truly amazing stunts and special effects. Good performance from Tom Arnold. Watch out for Charlton Heston as Arnold's boss.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

A great sequal with a well developed story.

[10 April 2000]

After the success of The Terminator, it was inevitable that a sequal would be made to James Cameron's sci-fi action movie. However mean a task this posed, Terminator 2: Judgment Day not only lived up to the expectations but it exceeded them.

T2 is also true to it's predecessor's great storyline, with a fully developed plot that is sadly missing in most sequals today. The Oscar winning special effects and makeup, combined with outstanding stunt work and Cameron's direction add up to one of the best action thrillers of recent times.

Schwarzeneggar, Hamilton and Patrick turn out solid performances, with debutant newcomer Edward Furlong also making his mark. Brad Fiedel updates his complimentary score from 'The Terminator' to give this a real feel of the first film.

Now You See Him, Now You Don't (1972)

Great fun movie.

[10 April 2000]

This comical tale is an example of what Saturday matinee movies used to be like. Don't be dismayed if you think this is for science fiction lovers only, it's got some great laughs, fine acting, surprisingly good special effects and a hugely enjoyable story. Great performances from the late Cesar Romero and Joe Flynn. Also notable to see a young Kurt Russell in action. Second feature in a trilogy with the same cast.