CORPORATE LINE: A space crew traveling the cosmos runs into a long-missing craft, manned by Dr. Hans Reinhardt (Maximilian Schell). Upon meeting Reinhardt, the astronauts discover that not only is he insane, but also he is steadfast in his efforts to travel through a nearby “black hole,” an abyss from which no one can escape. Matters worsen when Reinhardt holds the crew captive, after realizing that they can help him reach his goal. The squad must now figure out a way to flee from Reinhardt — before it’s too late… This attempt to gain a piece of the ‘Star Wars’ audience comprised Disney’s first entry into the world of the PG rating. The film, not a huge success in 1979, has since gained a cult following due to its ominous tone and innovative visual design and effects.
THE GOOD: Nothing.
THE BAD: When you are kid movies like The Black Hole really were cool; its funny how 25-years makes this movie look so dated. The effects aren’t terrible, but after all these years the film itself is almost comic.
DVD FEATURES: There are technical featurettes that show how the special effects were created; most of which are nearly more entertaining to watch than the film.
FRANKLY: Disney was behind the 8-ball on the sci-fi explosion and nostalgia alone isn’t enough to rekindle romance for a film no one cared for the first time around.
+ Charlie Craine
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