Rating of
2.5/4
A cult classic that fizzles
The M.O.W. - wrote on 08/02/08
"Conner Macleod" (Christopher Lambert in his most famous role) is unlike any other man. He is an immortal, born in Scotland in the early-1500's. Four centuries later, he is in New York City, as an antique dealer who the police suspect him for murder in the underground parking lot under Madison Square Garden as a professional wrestling show is going on in the "World's Most Famous Arena."
Now, falling in love with an antique weapons expert who the police hired in the case he is wanted in connection with, he must face the immortal (Clancy Brown) who almost killed him centuries ago.
This movie has completely missed the mark. Although the plot is pretty weak, it is well written. The script only touches the subplots, and barely expands them. One thing that could have been greatly expanded upon better was the blooming romance between "Macleod" and Roxanne Hart's character, the antique weapons expert.
The movie goes back and forth through "Macleod's" lifetime quite nicely. The scenes in the past help move the plot along nicely, and explains much.
The cast is real good. Brown, Lambert and Connery are perfectly cast in their roles. However, Lambert and especially Connery are strangely cast. You see, Lambert is a Frenchman who is playing a Scot, and Connery is a Scot playing an Egyptian raised in Italy. Connery doesn't even come close to looking Egyptian, people! However, you completely forget what they are in reality thanks to their performances, especially Connery. Also, it appeared that Lambert pretty much nailed the Scottish accent in the scenes where he and Connery's character interacts.
The special effects are quite low budget for the time this film was released to theaters. None of the special effects are that memorable.
What carries this film are the sword fights. They are nicely shot and choreographed nicely. The fights are fast-paced and full of action.
Wardrobes were really nice in this film, and looked quite authentic for the most part. I really liked the look of Connerey in this film, even if he doesn't look close to Egyptian.
Cinematography was nice in this film too. When "Macleod" and "Ramirez" (Connery) are training, there are some scenes shot from a heliocopter where the two actors are dangerously close to the edge of a high cliff. Those scenes in particular must have looked pretty impressive on the Silver Screen.
In my opinion, this would be a good rental -- if your first two or three choices are not available.
