I'd never even heard of this film until today. It's an enjoyable walk down memory lane in terms of familiar actors and the overall tone, and the Mant B-Movie is done brilliantly. John Goodman is great from beginning to end, with superb comic timing. His 'God willing' line when a kid says he'll see him soon just after almost electrocuting himself was magnificent in its subtlety.
I think the political message was well meaning, but a bit clumsy. Goodman saying 'adults are just making it all up as we go along' clearly tied in to the Bay of Pigs event, but I don't think this was the film to argue that point. It's a jarring combination; almost like The Goonies meets Schindler's List. There's no real meeting ground.
It wouldn't surprise me if the political undertone caused promotional issues. By all accounts the film is rarely aired, and global distribution is very limited. That can't be down to quality, as this is a very good film that should be far more recognised than it is.
I think the political message was well meaning, but a bit clumsy. Goodman saying 'adults are just making it all up as we go along' clearly tied in to the Bay of Pigs event, but I don't think this was the film to argue that point. It's a jarring combination; almost like The Goonies meets Schindler's List. There's no real meeting ground.
It wouldn't surprise me if the political undertone caused promotional issues. By all accounts the film is rarely aired, and global distribution is very limited. That can't be down to quality, as this is a very good film that should be far more recognised than it is.