How 1982’s Films Shaped a Generation

Read Time:4 Minute, 15 Second

MINI-SERIES REVIEW
1982: Greatest Geek Year Ever!
–

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023, 2024 Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 44m
Director(s): Roger Lay Jr.
Where To Watch: available November 5, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.mvdshop.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: As we delve into 1982: GREATEST GEEK YEAR EVER!, we're transported back to a year that revolutionized the film industry, marking a defining moment for cinema that resonates through the ages. This documentary strolls through our collective memories, guided by the voices of pivotal icons from the industry, and unpacks a year so rich in innovation that it changed the landscape of movie-making forever.

The heart of 1982: GREATEST GEEK YEAR EVER! lies not only in its celebration of blockbuster giants that captivated audiences worldwide but also in its focus on the smaller films that, despite their modest box office returns, have wielded a considerable influence on the evolution of cinema. If you want nostalgia, nostalgia, and more nostalgia, this is the way! This series is filled with so many unforgettable moments that bring deep joy to that 80s kid inside me!

The series offers a fascinating look at NIGHT SHIFT, charting the professional transformation of Ron Howard and Henry Winkler from television stars to film directing pioneers. Their journey is portrayed as a critical milestone in cinematic storytelling, underscoring the unpredictable nature of Hollywood careers.

A segment thoroughly examines STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN, presenting it as a saga that nearly didn't succeed but ultimately became a linchpin for the entire franchise. The documentary enriches this tale with exclusive insights from William Shatner and Nicholas Meyer, delving deep into the film's dramatic core and exploring its resurrection of the Star Trek brand.

1982: GREATEST GEEK YEAR EVER! also pays homage to Amy Heckerling’s FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH, applauding its depiction of adolescence and comedic takes. The documentary emphasizes the creative resistance Heckerling and Cameron Crowe mounted against studio pressures to maintain the film's authenticity—a testament to their commitment to truthful storytelling.

The narrative arcs into the realms of fantasy with genre-defining films like CONAN THE BARBARIAN and THE DARK CRYSTAL, celebrating their groundbreaking visual effects and ambitious narratives that expanded the boundaries of fantasy cinema. Meanwhile, John Carpenter’s THE THING is recognized not for its initial box office draw but for its enduring legacy as a masterclass in suspense and horror, illustrating that a film’s value can far exceed its financial earnings.

Acknowledging that not all ventures were victorious, 1982: GREATEST GEEK YEAR EVER! offers a balanced critique and a reflective look at MEGAFORCE. It analyzes its ambitious vision alongside the reasons it fell short, with Barry Bostwick providing firsthand insights into the hurdles faced during its production.

With contributions from cinematic luminaries like Howard and Leonard Maltin, the documentary transcends nostalgia to forge a deep, analytical exploration of a year that reshaped the cinematic world. This blend of retrospective and critical examination makes the series a compelling watch for anyone interested in the pivotal moments of film history.

1982: GREATEST GEEK YEAR EVER! is more than a retrospective; it's an essential exploration of how the films of 1982 continue to impact the industry and inspire filmmakers. It's a celebration of a year that saw the film industry innovate, inspire, and captivate like never before, making it a must-watch for anyone who cherishes the rich history of cinema.

Bonus Materials
High Definition (1080p) presentation of the feature-length, the unedited main feature in 1.78:1 Aspect Ratio
Audio: English LPCM 5.1 Surround
Optional English Subtitles
Audio commentary with Director/Producer Roger Lay, Jr. and Writer/Producer Mark A. Altman
Audio commentary with Producers Scott Mantz, Thomas P. Vitale & Writer/Producer Mark A. Altman
Deleted / Extended Scenes (HD, 40:49)
The Fans Speak: Fans Favorite Films Featurette (HD, 16:51)
2022 San Diego Comic-Con Panel (HD, 28:19)
Trailer

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.