Review of Lord of the Flies (1990) by The Critic ( — 27 Aug 2012

This second adaptation of William Golding's novel takes a number of liberties with the source material but, in some respects, is all the better for it. The impact of the boys' evolution from disciplined cadets to aggressive huntsmen doesn't quite pack the same punch as it would had they remained English (one can't help but think of Britons as anything but civilised), but the weight of the story's themes are explored with enough depth to keep you watching with intrigue and bated breath.

Sharply edited by director Harry Hook and beautifully photographed, the performances in 'Lord of the Flies' are top-notch. Balthazar Getty is exceptional as democratic leader Ralph, as are Chris Furrh as adversary Jack and, as the hauntingly complex Simon, Badgett Dale. Adorable brothers Andrew and Edward Taft are also fine as subservient bystanders to the unfolding tension amongst their peers, but Danuel Popoly is merely adequate as the much-bullied Piggy (whose real name in this version is never disclosed).

'Lord of the Flies' has much to say about social structure, ego-driven politics, propaganda (tribal chants), and the place of women in the world (Piggy is sometimes referred to as "Miss Piggy" and "tits"; feminising him to keep him subordinate).

Whilst not as critically respected as the original 1963 adaptation, Harry Hook and team's effort is well worth experiencing.