The RELIC

I've always thought Penelope Ann Miller to be awfully cute. 
Obviously this is just what "they" want me to think.  It's 
true, though. Maybe that is enough of a reason to call this 
one of my all time favorite films. Why would I do that, though, 
since it is not?

Directed by the dependably uninspired Peter Hyams, this film 
sports a tough-talking homicide detective, an obese black boy 
and his snot-nosed skinny white boy sidekick, nervous police 
dogs, moronic victims-to-be, a kindly old professor in a 
wheelchair, a scheming Asian stereoptype, relentessly ominous 
and unoriginal music, thunderstorms, sewer tunnels, 
cliche-clogged dialogue, and even a subtext (!) involving 
superstition. In short, there is so many bad elements to this 
huge thunderous mess that it somehow works.

The movie's main strength is Penelope Ann Miller as a brainy 
young genetic researcher. All too often the heroines in these 
sort of movies are unbelievable and whiny, but Miss Miller 
brings a genuine blend of naivete, strength and girlish pluck 
to the role. She's not afraid to come across as a little sassy,
uncertain and gangly, just like a real girl! It's most refreshing.

The film also benefits from fast-paced editing and atmospheric
lighting. The monster is original, well-animated and brought on 
at the right time and for just long enough. In short, this movie, 
while unoriginal and panifully cliched, manages to do everything 
right as far as pleasing the fans old monster movies.

RATING: ***