Walken’s Quirkiness Refreshes Typical Action Flick

Read Time:3 Minute, 33 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
McBain
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Genre: Crime, Drama, War
Year Released: 1991, 2023 Synapse Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director(s): James Glickenhaus
Writer(s): James Glickenhaus
Cast: Christopher Walken, Maria Conchita Alonso, Michael Ironside, Steve James
Where To Watch: available July 11, 2023, pre-order here www.synapsefilms.com

RAVING REVIEW: MCBAIN, a brainchild of James Glickenhaus, holds a unique appeal for those fond of action-packed flicks. Its birthplace might be in the nostalgic 90s, but this film holds a special place in action film history; from feeling like an homage to every action and war film ever to having this uniquely stacked cast, fans of the genre will swoon over this experience.

Drawing from the vibrant energy of the 80s, MCBAIN is a respectful nod to the golden era of action films. Through a remarkable narrative, we're invited to traverse the life of Robert McBain in a role passionately portrayed by Christopher Walken, an actor with a vibrant history that speaks for itself. The plot highlights McBain's metamorphosis from being a captive in Vietnam to finding liberation back home in America, all made possible by Chick Vennera (Roberto Santos) and his resilient band of Rangers.

Though MCBAIN might seem like an unexpected footnote in Walken's brilliant acting portfolio, it emanates a unique charisma. There's a twist to the action tale as Walken's performance unexpectedly sprinkles the movie with moments of humor that leave the audience with more than a smile, adding a refreshing layer to the typical 80s flick it’s paying tribute to.

The narrative leaps ahead by nearly two decades, where Santos is in a battle against a Colombian drug syndicate. This opens the stage for Maria Conchita Alonso, playing Christina, Santos's sister, who now seeks retribution for her brother's mistreatment and turns to McBain. Our protagonist, leading a humble life as a steelworker, resurfaces to dismantle the drug cartel led by the menacing El Presidente.

MCBAIN retains the machismo essence characteristic of 80s action films, effectively enhanced by Walken's captivating on-screen persona. His quirky style of dialogue delivery complements the rough-around-the-edges character he's portraying. The narrative is further enriched by commendable performances from Steve James, Luiz Guzman, and an unassuming Michael Ironside, which balances Alonso's overzealous act.

Under Glickenhaus's watchful eye, thrilling action sequences blend seamlessly with deep character development. Despite a somewhat stereotypical plotline, the film's momentum and execution are engaging, making it a delightful visual treat backed by a dynamic score and impressive production values.

Glickenhaus weaves an engaging narrative that captivates the audience, combining adrenaline-infused drama and action. Starting with the tail-end of the Vietnam War and moving on to McBain's daring rescue, the story then takes a detour drenched in vengeance, filled with explosive firepower, planes, and visual effects that were consistently well done.

MCBAIN narrates a tale of surmounting seemingly impossible hurdles, painting its characters in heroic shades. Though it sometimes teeters on the brink of the absurd, it continues to entertain through a potent mix of gunfire, smoke, and gore.

MCBAIN is an intriguing artifact from the 90s action genre. Walken's unique role as a war-toughened hero and Glickenhaus's sometimes crude directorial style might seem offbeat. MCBAIN adds just the right amount of humor with its over-top antics. While it sets out to address the scars of the Vietnam War, it does not shy away from underlining its more significant issues.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
– New 5.1 surround soundtrack explicitly created for this release (original theatrical stereo mix also included)
– Audio commentary with director James Glickenhaus and film historian Chris Poggiali
– Original theatrical trailer
– Newly translated removable English subtitles for people who are deaf or hard of hearing

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[photo courtesy of SYNAPSE FILMS]