Post by StevePulaski on Mar 27, 2011 9:48:08 GMT -5
Machines come to life in Maximum Overdrive.
Rating: ★★★
Stephen King is really not known for too much writing. We know he wrote the TV remake for The Shining because he was not pleased with the result of Kubrick's version. Even though Kubrick's adaptation of his book has now been considered one of the all time greatest horror films. King's writing was honestly the least of my concerns when it came to Maximum Overdrive. The visuals, cheesy idea, and characters cover up the writing.
The plot: Earth has now come in contact with a comet that causes machines like lawn mowers, electric knives, and even automobiles to start acting on their own taking revenge on humans. A majority of the film takes place in Wilmington, NC at "The Dixie Boy" truck stop. Bill (Estevez) works as a cook at the truck stop who tries to keep his customers and friends close as this all happens.
The film reminds me of Tremors for many reasons; it's set in a sleepy town in a desert like area, the things attacked are just out of this world, and the townspeople are similar to those in Tremors. Thats all good with me. Tremors is one of my favorite films.
Maximum Overdrive is now considered "comedy-horror" instead of straight up "horror." I disagree. I did find some moments of Max. O genuinely creepy. Despite all the hate it's getting online, it's a great popcorn flick. Doesn't live up to King masterpiece films like Christine or Stand By Me, but it's up there.
Starring: Emilio Estevez, Pat Hingle, Laura Harrington, and Yeardley Smith. Directed by: Stephen King.
