Pub.lished Movie Reviews
Back to the Future (1985)
"Christopher Lloyd is a blissful silly, though, and Lea Thompson's woozy-faced young Lorraine (Marty's mother-to-be) has a sly lustiness that's entrancing; as the tall, skinny, sad-sack George McFly (Marty's father-to-be), Crispin Glover is almost too painful a caricature, but he has more force than anyone else in the movie." - Pauline Kael
"Back to the Future" is a fantastic comedy about time travel.
The scientist, Doc Brown, invents a time machine. He places it in a DeLorean, of course.
Marty McFly uses it to travel back in time 30 years and meets his parents. However, his mother develops the hots for Marty. If Marty can't get his mother to fall in love with his father by the school dance, then Marty will cease to exist because he will never have been born.
How does Marty know this? Fortunately, he has a photo which shows each of his siblings slowly disappearing, fading away, being erased from history.
Is that really how time paradoxes are resolved? Ever so slowly? Then what happens when Marty disappears? Did he no longer stop his parents from hooking up, in which case does he now get to be born again? This is all so confusing.
If you happen to be a time traveler, please email me two years ago and let me know. Ok. I guess we will never know. Perhaps the time traveler emailed me in an alternate universe? If that's the case, why didn't the alternate universe time traveler email this universe's me? Oh gosh. I hope the alternate universe time traveler didn't accidentally paradox himself slowly out of existence. Or even worse, end up traveling to the same parallel universe as another version of himself. That would be just too embarrassing. Rookie time travel mistake.
Anyway, luckily, "Back to the Future" doesn't get bogged down with all this paradox mumbo jumbo. Marty can change the past. Marty did change the past. So unless he wants to try to become his own father, he has to change it back. Or else.
Also, luckily, "Back to the Future" is not anywhere near this complicated, although there are lots of wonderful little things you might notice. For instance, pay attention to the Twin Pines Mall sign both before and after Marty travels through time.
"Great Scott!"
- You don't enjoy movies that break the boundaries of their time with revolutionary special effects and concepts.
- You dislike storylines with time travel and paradoxes.
- You are not keen on 80s fashion, vernacular and pop-culture references.
- You prefer movies with modern, high-tech visual effects.
- You do not support movies that playfully explore complex scientific theories like Einstein's theory of relativity.
- You do not possess an interest in American youth culture of the past decades.
- Some thematic elements, mild language, and brief suggestive content may make it more suitable for children aged 10 and above.
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with "Back to the Future"? I mean, Marty goes to the past, but end up messing up the present, which was actually the future to their past selves! Who's on first base here?
And let's not forget Marty's got the hots for his mom in the past, but can't stand his dad in the present, who is actually his future dad from the past. It's like an Oedipus complex with a side of temporal indigestion!
So, Marty shakes things up, plays matchmaker for his parents, and punches Biff right in the kisser. Great, right? Fast forward to the future, and voila, it's all sunshine and rainbows for the McFly family. But hold on a minute. Marty comes back to a future that's polished to perfection for him, but it's really Marty(2)'s future. The Marty that grew up with successful parents, a Biff who's practically a lapdog, and a family that's straight out of a catalog.
But here's where it gets tricky - there's only one Marty in this picture-perfect future. What happened to Marty(2)? Did he just poof into thin air? Did he slide into a timeline where his life's a mess because he didn't know to biff Biff in the nose?
Imagine you're Marty(2), living in this happy future, and then suddenly, you're not. Maybe you're off in another timeline where your biggest problem isn't Biff, but figuring out why your parents are alcoholic losers and are looking at you funny.
The Princess Bride (1987)
If you appreciated the blend of comedy and adventure in "Back to the Future", you may enjoy "The Princess Bride". Although it falls primarily in the fantasy genre, the film's humor, wit, and infectious charm offers a spirit akin to that found in the iconic 80s time-travel adventure.
Ghostbusters (1984)Lovers of "Back to the Future" (1985) will appreciate "Ghostbusters" (1984) for its similar blending of science fiction, comedy, and adventure. Both films are iconic 80s blockbusters that feature eccentric characters, memorable one-liners, and inventive plotlines involving the manipulation of supernatural elements. "Ghostbusters," like "Back to the Future," balances humor with high-stakes drama and incorporates groundbreaking special effects, making it a must-see for anyone who appreciates the unique charm of '80s cinema.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)"Back to the Future" and "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" are timeless classics that have captivated audiences with their delightful blend of adventure, whimsy, and nostalgia. They share a similar charm, offering a unique blend of reality and fantasy that keeps viewers engaged and entertained. These films present eccentric, compelling characters, imaginative plots, and memorable music, all while exploring deeper themes of family, personal growth, and the consequences of our actions. If you appreciate 'Back to the Future's' blend of humor, heart, and adventure, you'll surely enjoy the enchanting world of Willy Wonka.
Groundhog Day (1993)Directed by Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray, this movie isn't about time travel in the traditional sense but involves a man reliving the same day over and over again. It's a unique take on the time loop concept, with plenty of comedic and philosophical moments.
Lover Come Back (1961)"Back to the Future" fans will love "Lover Come Back" because, like "Back to the Future", it combines comedy, romance, and a certain degree of fantasy. Both films involve high-stakes predicaments, comedic misunderstandings and unexpected twists that keep audiences intrigued. While "Lover Come Back" may not have time-travel, its storyline, revolving around mistaken identities and a fictional product, delivers a similar blend of humor and suspense. The charm and charisma of Doris Day and Rock Hudson also mirror the likability of Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, making "Lover Come Back" an enjoyable viewing experience for fans of "Back to the Future".
Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)Aficionados of "Back to the Future" are likely to enjoy "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" as both films are iconic 80s teen comedies that feature charismatic leads, memorable quotes, and cleverly constructed plots. Just as "Back to the Future" takes viewers on a fun, high-stakes adventure through time, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" offers a thrilling, humorous journey through a day of epic truancy. Both films share a similar tone, a mix of humor, adventure and a touch of romance, and depict the spirit of youthful rebellion against societal norms and expectations, making them timeless classics in the genre.
Back to the Future Part II (1989)Fanciers of "Back to the Future" (1985) will love "Back to the Future Part II" (1989) because it further explores the fun, thrilling, and adventurous time-traveling journey of Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett Brown, diving deeper into the characters and events introduced in the first film. The sequel maintains the mix of humor, science fiction, and action, while introducing new elements such as futuristic gadgets, alternate timelines, and paradoxes. It delivers an intricate plot, character development, and a nostalgic feel, making it a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed the original.
Back to the Future Part III (1990)Connoisseurs of "Back to the Future" (1985) will also love "Back to the Future Part III" (1990) as it continues the electrifying time-traveling adventures of Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett Brown, while maintaining the franchise's signature blend of humor, action, and heart. This third installment takes them to the Old West, introducing a fresh setting and new characters, yet it preserves the core themes of friendship, destiny, and the ripple effects of actions through time. It also delivers on the series' smart storytelling, with clever nods to the previous films and a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)Lovers of "Back to the Future" (1985) would also love "Spider-Man 2" (2004) due to their shared elements of compelling storytelling, thrilling action scenes, and the exploration of complex relationships. Both movies offer a blend of science fiction and adventure, featuring relatable protagonists who mature while dealing with extraordinary circumstances. The two films also excel in character development, humor, and emotional depth, presenting heroes who must balance their personal lives with their responsibilities. Additionally, each movie has iconic villains, suspenseful plots, and memorable special effects that keep audiences engaged throughout.
The Goonies (1985):If you enjoyed the youthful vibe and adventurous storyline of "Back to The Future", then you'll love "The Goonies". This classic 80's film combines adventure, comedy, and drama as a band of kids embarks on an incredible treasure hunt, filled with dangerous traps and unforgettable characters.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982):Steven Spielberg's "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" is also a must-watch if you're a fan of "Back to the Future". It combines elements of science fiction, adventure, and family relationships, which are all delivered with the same heartfelt sentiment that made "Back to the Future" such a hit.
Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989):If it's the time-traveling aspect of "Back to The Future" you loved most, then "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" should be right up your alley. This film adds a unique spin on the concept of time travel with plenty of laughs, and a loveable charm that's reminiscent of Marty McFly's adventures.
Gremlins (1984):For a blend of comedy, horror, and fantasy, "Gremlins" is a captivating film to consider. It features small, cute creatures that transform into menacing monsters when certain rules are broken. There's a certain kind of whimsy in "Gremlins" that fans of "Back to the Future" are sure to enjoy.
Flight of the Navigator (1986):A charming sci-fi adventure, "Flight of the Navigator" combines elements of time travel and extraterrestrial life in a family-friendly way, akin to "Back to the Future". The story centers on a 12-year old boy who gets whisked away on a high-tech spaceship, leading to unexpected adventures.
Like this? Then click here to see more scifi movies
