Flash Gordon
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Flash Gordon is a 1980 space opera superhero film that’s both a cult classic and a fascinating piece of cinematic history. Directed by Mike Hodges and based on Alex Raymond’s comic strip, the movie stars Sam J. Jones as Flash Gordon, with Melody Anderson, Ornella Muti, Max von Sydow, and Topol in key roles. This film is a wild ride through space, with its campy style, memorable performances, and a rockin’ soundtrack by Queen.
The movie’s journey to the screen was almost as dramatic as the film itself. Producer Dino De Laurentiis had a longstanding interest in adapting Flash Gordon, dating back to the 1960s. After failed attempts to get directors like George Lucas and Federico Fellini onboard, De Laurentiis eventually hired Mike Hodges. The film’s script was penned by Lorenzo Semple Jr., who also worked on the 1960s Batman TV series. This connection is evident in the film’s campy, over-the-top style.
Flash Gordon’s production took place primarily in the UK, with shooting locations including Elstree and Shepperton Studios. The production design, led by Danilo Donati, was lavish and colorful, reminiscent of comic book panels. However, the production wasn’t without its issues. Sam J. Jones, the film’s lead, had a falling out with De Laurentiis, leading to much of his dialogue being dubbed by actor Peter Marinker.
One of the film’s standout features is its soundtrack by Queen, which added a rock opera flair to the already eccentric movie.
The combination of Queen’s music and Howard Blake’s orchestral sections created a unique soundscape that perfectly matched the film’s tone.
Flash Gordon follows the titular character, a star football quarterback, and his allies Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov as they unite the warring factions of the planet Mongo against the tyrannical Emperor Ming the Merciless. Ming, played with menacing charm by Max von Sydow, plans to destroy Earth out of sheer boredom. The plot is a rollercoaster of action, with Flash and his friends facing brainwashing, deadly games of chance, and epic battles in their quest to save Earth.
Despite its campy nature, Flash Gordon has a lot of heart. The characters are colorful and larger than life, with memorable performances from the entire cast. Brian Blessed’s Prince Vultan, with his booming voice and iconic line “Gordon’s alive?!”, is a particular standout. The film’s visual effects, while dated by today’s standards, add to its charm and nostalgia factor.
Upon its release, Flash Gordon received mixed reviews and didn’t perform well at the U.S. box office.
However, it found success in the UK and Italy and has since gained a significant cult following. The film’s blend of humor, adventure, and camp has endeared it to generations of fans. Directors like Edgar Wright and Taika Waititi have cited it as an influence, and it continues to be a beloved piece of pop culture.
One of the film’s legacies is its influence on other media. The film was referenced and parodied in various shows and movies, most notably in Seth MacFarlane’s Ted, where Sam J. Jones made a memorable cameo. Flash Gordon’s style and tone also influenced comic book adaptations and other science fiction works.
In recent years, there has been talk of a reboot. Directors and writers like Matthew Vaughn and Taika Waititi have been linked to new projects, although nothing has come to fruition yet. The original film remains a unique and entertaining slice of 1980s cinema, with its blend of sci-fi adventure, rock music, and campy humor.
Flash Gordon is more than just a film; it’s a cultural artifact that captures a specific moment in cinematic history. It’s a testament to the power of imagination and the enduring appeal of comic book heroes. Whether you love it for its camp or its genuine charm, Flash Gordon is a movie that continues to thrill and entertain, decades after its release. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected movies can become timeless classics
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