Review of Phase IV (1974) by Stephen C — 18 Feb 2014
Saul Bass is today best known for his title sequences for many classic movies.
What isnt well known is the fact he directed a small and brilliant drama about Ants .
Now that may sound like an idea for a B movie clunker but in the hands of Bass we have a low key classic that deserves to be better known.
Nigel Davenprt and Michael Murphy play two boffins who have widely different approaches when it comes to dealing with the ants.
One is set on there ultimate destruction the other is determined to make contact with an insect that has become highly advanced.
Bass stages this face off with amazing dexterity while all the while showing the growing threat the ants are posing.
The film is shot by DP Dick Bush and its staggering in places most notably when the action focuses on the ants and there preperation to attack.
In a bad directors hands this kind of film would feel very silly indeed ,but thanks to Bass we have a great Eco what if ? that by all rights should be a classic of the genre .
This review of Phase IV (1974) was written by Stephen C on 18 Feb 2014.
Phase IV has generally received mixed reviews.
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