Review of Total Recall (1990) by Jonny B — 30 Aug 2012

Total Recall is another excellent Schwarzenegger sci-fi blockbuster but one which lacked the classic feel of Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgement Day.

Schwarzenegger is Douglas Quaid, a man who feels compelled to explore the depths of Mars with his wife Lori (Sharon Stone). His current life-style does not satisfy him; when he hears of the mind warping Rekall he is intrigued at what they have to offer. They claim to be able to manipulate your mind and send you on an adventure of a life time - in Doug's case Mars - in someone else's personality - in Doug's case, a secret agent. However, Doug soon gets lost in the non-reality world of Rekall when it appears to have collided with his own reality. His friends and his wife are trying to murder him whilst a top secret organisation also want him dead!

For all the action entailed in Total Recall it actually plays out as a very interesting and intellectual sci-fi thriller.

It's story is rather complex and has numerous twists to it which aren't that obvious and may shock you as the viewer. It's an incredibly long roller coaster ride which doesn't let go until the very end, an exhilarating affair!

Arnie is perfectly cast as the role of Quaid with all of his battles believable due to his enormous physique. Stone as his 'wife' is a cold hearted woman of corruption whilst second love interest Merlina - played by Rachel Ticotin - is also a strong casting member.

Total Recall is an excellent overall film but it is still short of classic status in my view.

When the story paces forward and reaches the destination of Mars I found this slightly less enthralling in comparison to the similar game of cat and mouse on Earth. Also, the climax, despite all the twists prior follows along the lines of what you may have expected come the half way mark.

Finally, the emotional weight in the film - although apparent - is of a much lower calibre than that of say...Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Mr Schwarzenegger may not be the most outstanding of actors however he showed a greater emotional strength as the Terminator than he did of Quaid - as did his on-screen casting members.

Still, this should take nothing away from a brilliant achievement; Paul Verhoeven has made a stunning piece of film based on Philip K. Dick's story which should not be missed despite a number of flaws.