“Back To The Future” Film Review/Opinion (40th Anniversary Re-Issue)

This film holds many special memories for me, and I vividly recall watching it for the first time in the cinema 40 years ago. I remember attending a late-evening screening with my friend Laurie. The film immediately captivated me with its opening sequence of clocks and the intro accompanied by Huey Lewis and the News’s music, “The Power of Love.” Then other details I had forgotten quickly came back to me.

This was a major and very popular film in its day. Remaining popular with audiences over the years and spawning two sequels and a popular theatre musical version these days.

If you haven’t seen the film, it’s a must-watch. Steven Spielberg executive-produced and Robert Zemeckis directed this high-budget production, which features an excellent cast. Michael J Fox plays Marty McFly, a teenage high school student who accidentally travels back in time to 1955 in a DeLorean car, a Time Machine constructed by his friend, Doc Brown. Marty must attempt to return home while trying to avoid altering the course of history, a challenging task.

The film effectively sets up the story, and the final 30 minutes are particularly fast-paced and thrilling as Doc attempts to help Marty return home, facing numerous challenges. Despite knowing the outcome, it was still exhilarating to witness it on the big screen once more.

The sets, visuals, score, and direction all contribute to making this a fun and fast-paced film. It’s no wonder there’s a lot of celebrations happening for the 40th anniversary, with an “enchantment of the sea” dance planned at the original film location and even a “Back to the Future” concert to celebrate the iconic film score.

This time around, if you’re lucky, the film is also playing in IMAX cinemas. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched the film over the years, and I thoroughly enjoyed it again. No doubt digitally enhanced, but it still looks amazing though I only got to see it in standard 2D.

Before Back to the Future, Fox was primarily known for his TV comedy “Family Ties.” This film catapulted him to stardom, and of course, Christopher Lloyd’s brilliant eccentric portrayal of “Doc Brown” is unforgettable.

Other cast included Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover and Thomas F. Wilson

Hopefully, we’ll also get anniversary editions of the follow-up films in future. However, part 2 followed about 4 years after the original so we will likely have a wait. An enjoyable opportunity to see this classic again at the cinema.

Film Rating

Music

4 out of 5

Strength of story/plot

4.5 out of 5

Acting/Performances

4 out of 5

Overall

4 out of 5

Keep an eye out for a special ETE Subscriber Post coming soon – Why I Love The “Back To The Future” Film

Certification: 12A
Running time: 116 minutes
Screening type: 2D

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