Review of Heavy Metal (1981) by Johnathon W — 18 Jan 2016
Fun but flawed animated film that holds a place in the genre in exploring darker areas but not a real classic due to some juvenile storytelling. The main problem with the movie is that, while claiming to be a 'mature' animated movie, plays more like a juvenile male fantasy, particularly in it's depiction of women, who always seem to get naked & throw themselves at every man they see.
Even Taarna, the warrior heroine of the final story, is depicted in a skimpy outfit that manages to disappear more than a few times. That's not to say there aren't some good stories in this anthology, with "Harry Canyon" playing like a tech-noir in the vein of 'Blade Runner', while the "B-17" is a classic horror tale.
Visually, the animation is gorgeous though uneven, though even today it's something to see violence & sex depicted realistically in animated film. Taken in the context this was a time the Disney-style of family friendly films dominated Western animation, it's even more so.
The voice cast is solid for the most part (the late, great John Candy brings plenty of humor & personality to all his roles) and the soundtrack, from the rock songs to Elmer Bernstein's score, is a classic.
Overall, as a film by itself, it's not that good, but as an historical animated film that broke new ground, it's worth a place in any fan's collection.
This review of Heavy Metal (1981) was written by Johnathon W on 18 Jan 2016.
Heavy Metal has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
