Search - The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eighth Dimension

The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eighth Dimension

Actor(s): Peter Weller, John Lithgow, Ellen Barkin, Jeff Goldblum, Christopher Lloyd
Director(s): W.D. Richter
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Details

MPAA Rating: PG
Content Advisory: Mild Violence, Adult Situations, Questionable for Children, Adult Language
Movie Release: 1984
DVD Release: 01/01/2002
Format: DVD - Enhanced Wide Screen Letterbox for 16x9 TV
Edition: Special Collection
Audio Tracks: English, French
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
SwapaDVD Credits: 1
Number of Discs: 1
Run Time: 1 hrs 42 mins
Studio: MGM
Members Wishing: 18
Genres: Science Fiction, Sci-Fi Action, Sci-Fi Comedy

Synopsis

Despite mixed reviews and a disastrous initial release that dumped the film into theaters for a week in the midst of the 1984 Summer Olympics, The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eight Dimension went on to become one of the major cult films of the 1980s, developing a rabid following after its release on videotape. Drifting between satire and improbable sci-fi adventure, the film stars Peter Weller as Buckaroo Banzai, the son of an American mother and Japanese father who is a combination physicist, neurosurgeon, martial arts master, secret agent, and rock star who travels with his band of assistants/backing musicians, The Hong Kong Cavaliers. As the story opens, Buckaroo is driving his car through a mountain to test his new invention, the Oscillation Overthruster. However, a race of boorish aliens called the Red Lectroids have been waiting for such an item to become a reality, as they need it to return to the distant planet they call home. One of Buckaroo's arch-enemies, Dr. Emilio Lizardo (John Lithgow), who has been possessed by the Red Lectroids, attempted to created a similar device decades before; now escaped from an insane asylum, he is back at work with the Lectroids on a plan to control the world. Throw in Rastafarian aliens, unscheduled travel between dimensions, and the odd inexplicable watermelon, and you get a film that defies conventional synopsis. With its fast pace, quotable dialogue ("No matter where you go, there you are"), and barrage of gags (subtle and otherwise), you won't be bored even when you're not sure what's going on. The supporting cast includes Jeff Goldblum as New Jersey, a Cavalier with a snappy cowboy outfit, and Ellen Barkin as Penny Priddy, the twin sister of Buckaroo's late wife. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide

Cast

Peter Weller - Buckaroo Banzai
John Lithgow - Dr. Emilio Lizardo
Ellen Barkin - Penny Priddy
Jeff Goldblum - New Jersey
Christopher Lloyd - John Bigboote

Editorial Review

Who would have expected a special edition for '80s cult film The Adventures of Buckaroo Bonzai Across the 8th Dimension? That is exactly what MGM has delivered with this DVD, and the results are exceptional. The special features for this disc are rather unique, as they present this film like Bonzai actually lived. A nice documentary, with vintage interviews from the cast, and new material with director W.D. Richter doesn't go into great detail, but is still informative and amusing. A real plus is a commentary track with Richter and writer Earl Mac Rauch. Also, on a subtitle track, information is presented as fact about the history of the characters. Knowing the movie is obviously fiction makes this track all the more entertaining. In addition, there are character profiles, information about the "jet car," a photo gallery, an alternate opening (with Jamie Lee Curtis), a tease trailer, deleted scenes, and much more. As for the picture and sound, care has been taken there also. The 2.35:1 anamorphic image is the best this film has seen since the theaters. Though not without some problems, such as moments of grain, it looks far better than would be expected for such a relatively unknown movie. The sound is also good, but not necessarily strong. The 5.1 English track is primarily centered upfront, with only limited use of the surrounds. The front right and left speakers do get some use, creating a little directional effect. Also available is a mono track in French, as well as subtitles in French and Spanish. While there is no question this isn't a film that will ever appeal to a wide audience, fans will be highly grateful that so much work went into this disc. ~ Trent Fordham, All Movie Guide