I caught this on ABC back in 1997 and thoroughly enjoyed it for what is was... another version of Jules Verne's classic story. Yes, there were liberties taken (Nemo having a daughter for example), but then again, the Disney version (another one of my favorites), is thought of as the most accurate telling (it isn't). Michael Caine is well cast as Captain Nemo, bringing a quiet dignity to the role. Another reviewer had said he looked tired and sleepy, but it looks more to me like he was playing Nemo with a weariness of hiding from the world and a profound sense of loneliness (of having somewhat of an intellectual equal to speak with, etc.), which explains his warmth toward the young Arronax. Patrick Dempsey and the rest of the cast are good as well, with Bryan Brown making a very UNlikeable Ned Land. You understand his motivation, however. Considering this was made for TV, the effects are surprisingly good, but some of the set pieces are obvious. Some political correctness rears its ugly head, but for the most part it's not that bad. The score by Mark Snow (of X Files fame) is superb and gives this a more film like feel, rather than a TV mini-series. I was lucky enough to score a copy of this on VHS (long out of print and VERY hard to find), and would love to see it released on DVD in the US market. The Richard Crenna version from the same year has been, why not this one? In all, if you find this anywhere, give it a look...
(Edit 5-1-06) FINALLY, it IS out on DVD! The transfer is spectacular in quality, and anybody contemplating purchasing it should do so, now!
(Edit 5-1-06) FINALLY, it IS out on DVD! The transfer is spectacular in quality, and anybody contemplating purchasing it should do so, now!