Mad Max

Starring: Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Roger Ward
Directed by: George Miller
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Science Fiction
1979

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A cop (Mel Gibson) living in the post-apocalyptic future has his life devastated when a gang of motorcycle outlaws threatens his partner and his family. Once everything good in his life is destroyed, he sets out of a quest for vengeance.

Review:

Tim: Mad Max is so important because in many ways, it is the film that launched the career of Mel Gibson. That is a pretty powerful statement right there and this movie deserves a viewing for that reason alone.

I was incredibly impressed that this is an independent Australian film- it is almost unbelievable that a film this good was made from practically nothing. In that context, the movie is outstanding.

However, looking at the big picture, comparing this film to all other movies, I wasn't too entertained. I could never get into the story and was very bored at various times throughout the film.

The movie boasts car and motorcycle chases and wrecks that were some of the most elaborate ever filmed and are the most interesting element of the movie. World records were actually broke on the Mad Max set- that is impressive.

Mel Gibson does a good job as the titular hero. He doesn't have much of a chance to act, but he plays the part well enough to deserve the stardom he achieved after the role.

This film is supposed to be set in a post-apocalyptic world, but the obvious lack of special effects make it look like it simply takes place in rural parts of Australia. No real explanation is ever given to what the apocalypse was, or how the world is different now then before. That really bugs me.

In the end, Mad Max is an important film and deserves an occasional viewing. However, don't expect too much, and keep in mind that this is a low-budget Australian production. You'll enjoy it a lot more that way.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 6.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Road Warrior, Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, Maverick, Braveheart, Lethal Weapon