Re-issued in 1984 with a modern soundtrack, this expressionistic masterpiece remains a cult favourite. In a futuristic city, factory slaves are duped into rioting when non-violence advocate Maria is perceived as a threat to the authority of the privileged class and replaced by a robot double. Dazzling set design and special effects.
'Droogies' led by Malcolm McDowell (Alex) roam the streets beating people up and raping women. Alex is apprehended and cops some nasty aversion therapy which leads to complications. Graphic violence is set to classical music and Gene Kelly's 'Singin' In the Rain'. Based on the Anthony Burgess novel and not for all tastes.
Fans of the Stanislaw Lem novel are probably asking themselves 'How deep is the ocean?' - and how could anyone manage to make a movie out of Solaris? Russian director Tarkovsky does a brilliant job with this story of a cosmonaut who goes to a planet where all sorts of memories can take physical form. Mind-bending stuff.
The Man Who Fell to Earth D: Nicolas Roeg (1976) 140m
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David Bowie (as Newton) is top-notch in this moving film about the dangers of earthly-excess and temptation. Needing water to save his home planet and family, Newton comes to Earth and utilises alien-technology to get rich quick. Sex, drugs, alcohol and a wall of TVs soon lead him astray and family values are put to the test.
Eraserhead D: David Lynch (1977) 100m
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Questionable sci-fi credentials, although ostensibly set in an ethereal post-apocalyptic future. A recluse learns that he is about to become a father. The newborn child turns out to be a hideous lizard-like mutant whose incessant crying leads to a murder plot. Atmospheric film-noir masterpiece that was five years in the making.
Mad Max D: George Miller (1979) 93m
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Often copied, but never bettered - this Australian film had already gained a small cult following by the time its sequel, The Road Warrior, became a worldwide hit in 1981. In post-apocalyptic Australia, a cop quits the force and takes revenge on the motorcycle gang who killed his family. Civilisation survives (sort of) amidst action galore.
Violent cartoon version of Otomo's comic book series is largely responsible for the current worldwide popularity of Japanese animation. A scientific experiment gone wrong triggers the growth of psychic powers and physical strength in the member of a motorcycle gang. A mind-boggling climax brings change on a universal scale.
Dark City D: Alex Proyas (1998) 100m
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Ethereal nihilism destined to grow in stature in coming years. In an eternally dark city aliens conduct secret experiments to find out what gives us soul. Hero and suspected serial-killer John Murdoch discovers he has telekinetic powers and is not about to let 'the Strangers' off the hook so easy. Stylish visuals are impressive.
