The Time Machine

A slightly idealised faithful adaptation of the already naive novel by H.G. Wells. If, given the Oscar (undeservedly), you were expecting some kind of special effects wonder, you're not going to get it. The exception is the scene where George, the protagonist, is sitting in his time machine and the world changes around him, with flowers blooming and fading quickly, and the mannequin in the shop window quickly changing its clothes. This effect was created by a long camera shot, which was later sped up for the film; as simple as it can be, and surprisingly, the only that is worth mention. The impression of the future is evoked by two futuristic buildings and the interior of the Morlocks' cave. And that’s it. The Morlocks' costumes themselves are hilarious, which wouldn't have mattered, but George's confrontation with them is rather misdirected, making it feel more like an unintentional parody. Fine, it’s the time tax, I get it. Similarly, you have to turn a blind eye to the horrific scripting holes that abound in the film. What is definitely worth praising is the pleasant soundtrack and the charismatic performance of Rod Taylor. Summary: no technological or cinematic marvel, just a pleasant period sci-fi, but certainly much better than the 2002 version. (12/13/2012)

These old sci-fi movies are just beautiful. Yes, they are all very naive, but the fact that they were shot in color, and the fact that the creators attempted to achieve some real scientific meaning is what's beautiful about it. Yes, Wells could be credited for the excellent source material, but this execution is what's entertaining. Moreover, once it gets to the Morlocks, it becomes truly terrifying to watch. (02/09/2015)