Weirdhouse Cinema: Flash Gordon (1980)
Stuff To Blow Your Mind
Episode Insights
See all- "Flash Gordon" stands out for its campy and flamboyant style, embracing its comic book origins with intentional humor and a nostalgic nod to an earlier era of storytelling, resonating with audiences who saw it as children and the filmmakers who grew up with the original stories.
- The film is noted for its plastic costume armor clacking sounds in battle scenes, an unusual choice that adds to its charm and self-awareness, distinguishing it from other sci-fi films of its time.
- "Flash Gordon" is part of a wave of late 70s and early 80s sci-fi films influenced by the success of "Star Wars," with George Lucas initially wanting to adapt Flash Gordon before creating his own iconic universe.
- Queen's soundtrack and score for "Flash Gordon" are deeply integrated with the film's identity, with Brian May's guitar sound and dialogue samples from the movie enhancing key scenes and character introductions.
- The casting of relative newcomer Sam J. Jones as Flash and renowned actor Max Von Sydow as Ming the Merciless brought a blend of emerging talent and seasoned expertise to the film, adding depth and global appeal to the character ensemble.
- The depiction of Ming the Merciless reflects past stereotypes of Asian villains and orientalism, an element that remains problematic and subject to criticism.
- The movie showcases intricate relationships and alliances among various factions, such as the Arborians and Hawkmen, with Flash Gordon's influence igniting their unification against the common enemy, Ming.
- Key plot points and major battles, like the trial by combat and Flash's rebellion leading to Ming's defeat, are critical to the film's adventurous spirit and visual spectacle.
- Flash's temptation by Ming and his ultimate rejection of the offer to become "Prince of Earth" underscores the themes of heroism, loyalty, and resistance against oppression.
- "Flash Gordon's" legacy as a cult classic and an influential piece of the sci-fi genre stems from its unique combination of humor, action, and an iconic soundtrack, inspiring future generations of creators and fans alike.