|
| • Advanced Search • Help |
The Hunter | Year: 1980 Classification: Drama Directed: - Buzz Kulik Actors/Actresses: - Steve McQueen - Eli Wallach PU Most reviewers blasted this film when it came out and for once the critics were right. It's so terrible it has a kind of fascination to it as you watch this assortment of fine actors trying to bring some life to a script of pure claptrap. Perhaps McQueen's judgment was clouded by the onset of his mortal illness when he ok'd it. He couldn't have been feeling very well and his discomfort is palpable. Allegedly and laughably based on the life of bounty-hunter Ralph Thorson, it's an idiotic mix of domestic whinery and crook-catching that should have been played for straight comedy. Then we'd have had a happier finale from this great actor. Not the best ending for McQueen's career. Steve McQueen plays Papa Thorson a man who lives in the past with the motto "New things are no Good." Papa's a bounty hunter who relies on a law from the late1800's that allows anyone to capture those who jump bail (by almost any means necessary). Most of the movie shows Papa tracking down and capturing criminals. There are some wacky chase scenes -- one involving a Trans Am and a Harvester in a corn field - but most the action is mundane especially compared to McQueen's other films. The movie would have benefited greatly with better effects (explosions, etc), some one liners and stronger characterization. The ending is somewhat sentimental and cheesy. The film is based on a true story - which probably could have used some embellishment. McQueen gives a pretty good performance and it's fun to see Levar Burton in one of his earlier roles. Recommended for hard-core McQueen fans only. McQueen's last movie still a good one The Hunter is a very exciting movie based on the exploits of real life bounty hunter Ralph "Papa" Thorson. The movie follows his efforts to bring the bad guys in at all costs. One of the best scenes in the movie involves Thorson chasing his man through the streets of Chicago, the subway, and then up one of the towering parking garages that border the Chicago River. Needless to say, the chase ends with a bang. As well, there is a subplot involving a man named Mason, a speed freak bent on getting revenge on Thorson, the man who brought him in. Also, Thorson's girlfriend is pregnant causing him that much more problems. The story is very enjoyable. Even though it deals with a possibly dark subject, bounty hunting, the movie has a comedic edge in several scenes as McQueen repeatedly chases different criminals down. Although this may not be the best movie McQueen made it is still well worth a watch. Steve McQueen is at his best in this movie even though it is obvious he is struggling with lung cancer. You can tell he had fun with the role though as a man who refuses to let things go. As well, his character is a horrible driver constantly hitting parked cars, driving up on sidewalks, and even destroying a Trans Am. Considering the fact that McQueen was such a good driver makes this all that much more funny. The film also stars Eli Wallach, Kathryn Harold as his girlfriend Dotty, Lavar Burton as Tommy Prince, a teenager Papa takes in, and a small but enjoyable role for Ben Johnson as Sheriff Strong. The DVD contains the widescreen presentation of the movie as well as a theatrical trailer, both of which look very good. Fans of McQueen will love this movie! For an exciting movie with a good story, exciting action, and a great performance by Steve McQueen check out this movie! Buy The Hunter at Amazon.com Buy posters at Allposters.com Jamster - the latest ringtones for your phone!  Search with Walhello on the Internet on The Hunter Search with the Priority Search Engine on The Hunter This page in other languages: Suomeksi | Nederlands | Deutsch
|
