Search - Black Moon Rising on DVD

Finally, a good DVD version! - A great 80's B-Movie!

J. McDonald | 01/16/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This review is for the Black Moon Rising DVD with UPC 013131549690 and ASIN: B000WC38DM, from Starz / AnchorBay. DVD Release Date: December 18, 2007.

There are several versions of Black Moon Rising available on DVD. Please be aware that many have VERY poor transfers, are full-screen (cropped), and some are even missing the opening computer "text" that sets up the plot. I've purchased three versions on DVD and this one (The 2007 release) seems to be the only one that finally gets it right.

Black Moon Rising is based on a story by John Carpenter, who is also listed as a co-writer of the screenplay. If you're looking for a good action B-Movie from the 80's, Black Moon Rising should be at the top of your list. Here's why....

Perfectly cast; Tommy Lee Jones totally owns the role of "Quint", a character that should have seen many more big screen adventures. Linda Hamilton, fresh off her "Terminator" success, delivers a fine performance as "Nina", a professional car thief. Film and TV veteran Robert Vaughn (The Man From UNCLE, Magnificent Seven) makes an excellent villain. Even the supporting cast (Bubba Smith, Richard Jaeckel, Lee Ving) are right on target!

I cannot review this movie without also mentioning the OUTSTANDING score by legendary tv and film composer Lalo Schifrin, who is perhaps best known for having created the "mission impossible" theme. I must also mention the incredible "Black Moon" car, which looks absolutely great!

The weakest link within the film is a screenplay that could have used a rewrite, and a few special effects in need of a bit more work. But in the end, it's the cast, music, and overall "style" of the film that more than makes up for the low-budget and script problems.

Black Moon Rising is a low-budget, 80's B-Movie that is certain to entertain! And with this DVD release, we finally get a decent, unedited transfer of the film!!

JM"

One of those overlooked gems

J. McDonald | 08/25/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It happens. Wrong time. Wrong place. Who Knows? But sometimes even movies released into regular circulation from the major studios fall through the cracks. This is definitely one of those. Tommy Lee Jones as the industrial spy is as cool and calm as he's ever been. Linda Hamilton is as good as she's ever been and Richard Jaekel turns in another steady performance. The plot is clever and tight enough to satisfy most and the directing by Harley Cockliss (whatever happened to him? This seems to be his only outing) is tight and well paced. This is just a good action thriller, and it has one of the best fist-fight scenes ever. It isn't quite up to the budget of the newer "high concept" titles like Enemy of the State or The Rock, but it's every bit as nifty as those. Jones' performance alone is worth the price of the rental so grab a pizza and a six pack and go for it. Note: The "Guy Factor" is real high here, so all you testosterone-laden males out there are virtually guaranteed a good time."

Not just guy stuff, Tommy Lee is for us ladies too

J. McDonald | 04/03/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A previous reviewer stated that this movie was loaded with guy stuff. While this might be true, 90 minutes or so of Tommy Lee Jones (and a couple great love scenes) works for me! Killer fight scenes too. This was a very enjoyable movie. Unfortunately, done before Jones was really appreciated. What took everyone so long?"

Tommy

andrejalavrencic | 01/19/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Is he good, or is he good - best love scene with the best guy in it. Good work, Tommy!"