Acclaimed filmmakers Ridley and Tony Scott shepherded this widely-seen, four-hour adaptation of Michael Crichton's novel about a devastating alien plague spread by a fallen satellite. The Scotts and director Mikael Salomon... more » update the novel's technology and push this production's tone closer to medical thriller than science fiction; a capable cast led by Benjamin Bratt, Christa Miller and Andre Braugher are the clock-racers who must find a way to stop the lethal virus from spreading beyond the borders of a small desert town. Fast-paced and at times surprisingly violent, the Andromeda Strain miniseries also suffers from bad cases of giggle-worthy dialogue and performances, especially Eric McCormick (Will and Grace) as a reporter in recovery, and subplots involving the President and Bratt's romantic history bog down the action. Though the suspense makes the miniseries involving at times, the 1971 theatrical adaptation by Robert Wise was more effective in creating an unsettling sense of slow-building doom. The two-disc DVD includes commentary by Salomon and his production team, as well as a making-of documentary which chronicles the Scotts' attempts to develop the project for the big screen before turning to television, as well as extensive looks at the miniseries' special effects. A gallery of production sketches and photos round out the extras. -- Paul Gaita« less
I'm kind of on the fence with this one.
I watch the original as a teen when this came out in theaters many moons ago and it scared the heck out me back then.
This new version goes into some detail and speculation about Andromeda than the original movie and it leaves you with a slight hangover.
Thinking to myself, do I like this or not.
3 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Mark T. (THEBLUEMAX) from ATOKA, TN Reviewed on 2/6/2014...
Most reviewers like this newer version mini-series over the original classic movie. I don't agree. I thought the original movie was excellent and still not to dated. This newer mini-series gives you something to continue watching night after night and I think that's the main reason for the favoritism over the original. Also, I think the age and love of CGI of some reviewers has a big influence on their criticism. I've seen them both and recommend you do too!
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
David N. (teenagewerewolf) from GADSDEN, AL Reviewed on 4/10/2013...
I consider this even better then the original movie. Great mystery! They could have left out alot of the gore but I watch this about 3 times a year and enjoy it!! Karen
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Cara C. (chasedc) from REDDING, CA Reviewed on 1/14/2009...
It is a good movie, although I read the book first, and the newer movie doesn't stay true to the book. I could have done without a few of the gorier parts, but that's just me. I love a good disaster movie!
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Octavio F. (Octavio) from SEATTLE, WA Reviewed on 9/15/2008...
Excellent remake of the original version. It has more updated situations and more realistic atmosphere. Of course, the book is always the best of all but this movie makes a good approach.