“Outland 1981” is a gritty sci-fi thriller set on a mining colony in space. Sean Connery plays a tough marshal who battles corruption, drug addiction, and murder on the isolated outpost. The movie is like “High Noon” in space, with Connery confronting his enemies alone and outnumbered. The tension builds to a thrilling climax that will leave you breathless. “Outland 1981” is a must-see for fans of classic sci-fi and action movies.
⇩⇩⇩
Review
In the vast expanse of space, there is no escape from the long arm of the law. Law enforcement officer Marshal William T. O’Neil patrols the mining outpost of Con-Am 27, a remote industrial facility located on one of Jupiter’s moons. But when a series of bizarre suicides and murders occur at the station, O’Neil is thrust into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear in Peter Hyams’s 1981 science fiction thriller “Outland.”
The storyline follows Sean Connery as Marshal O’Neil, a lone wolf whose wife and son are back on Earth while he puts his life on the line to protect innocent workers in space. Despite being up against powerful corporations and their hired guns, O’Neil refuses to stand by and watch as the body count rises. With his knack for getting into trouble, he soon finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic battle where survival is anything but certain.
Despite being set in space, “Outland” is heavily influenced by Ernest Hemingway’s writing style – minimalistic, tough-minded, and full of terse dialogue. The film focuses more on character development rather than flashy special effects. O’Neil’s quiet determination serves as an anchor for viewers who are plunged into an unknown world full of intrigue and danger.
The plot contains many twists and turns that keep audiences guessing until the final minutes. Director Peter Hyams manages to make even mundane tasks like changing light bulbs seem tense due to his use of tight angles and close-ups.
The fact that “Outland” did not do well at the box office upon its initial release has become something of a mystery among fans. Perhaps it was overshadowed by other science fiction films released around the same time such as “Blade Runner.” However, over time it has gained a cult following amongst fans who appreciate its gritty realism.
The cast is led by Sean Connery as Marshal O’Neil, who brings his trademark charm and toughness to the role. He is supported by a strong ensemble that includes Frances Sternhagen as the no-nonsense Dr. Lazarus, Peter Boyle as the corrupt General Jackson, and James B. Sikking as the disturbed worker Montone.
One of the standout quotes from the film comes from Dr. Lazarus when she advises O’Neil to “Keep your feet on the ground and your head in the stars.” It’s a reminder that even when things seem impossible, we can still strive to be our best selves.
The cinematography by Stephen Goldblatt is strikingly beautiful with sweeping shots of Jupiter’s moon Io contrasted against the stark industrial setting of Con-Am 27. The score by Jerry Goldsmith adds to the sense of foreboding and danger that pervades throughout.
The filming took place at Pinewood Studios in England where director Hyams worked with art director Philip Harrison to create a believable and immersive world on a limited budget.
Despite its critical success, “Outland” did not receive many accolades during award season other than receiving nominations for best special effects and sound editing at the 1982 Academy Awards.
In terms of special effects, “Outland” relies more on practical effects rather than CGI. The scenes where workers explode due to their drug abuse are particularly well done.
The film’s themes touch upon issues such as corporate greed, drug abuse, and worker exploitation – issues that are still relevant today. It’s a potent reminder that even in space we cannot escape our human flaws.
One of the most memorable scenes in “Outland” features O’Neil engaging in a gunfight while floating in zero gravity. The use of wirework adds an extra layer of tension as he struggles to stay alive while taking out his foes.
There have been rumors over the years about a potential remake or sequel for “Outland,” but nothing has come to fruition yet. It remains a unique and underrated gem in the science fiction genre.
Overall, “Outland” is a well-crafted film that features strong performances, stunning visuals, and a compelling storyline. Its appeal lies in its gritty realism which sets it apart from other flashy sci-fi films of its time. Fans of Hemingway’s writing will appreciate its minimalistic approach while science fiction fans will enjoy its tense action sequences. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition than it has received over the years.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 109
- Release : 1981-05-22
- Genre : Science Fiction, Action
- Cast : Sean Connery as Marshal William T. O’Niel, Peter Boyle as Mark Sheppard, Frances Sternhagen as Dr. Lazarus, James B. Sikking as Sgt. Montone, Kika Markham as Carol O’Niel
- Crew : Mary Selway as Casting, Gordon Davidson as Supervising Sound Editor, David M. Horton as Sound Editor, Jerry Goldsmith as Original Music Composer, Stuart Baird as Editor
- Popularity 10.502
- Budget : $16,000,000
- Revenue : $17,374,595
- Company : The Ladd Company, Outland Productions, Pinewood Studios
- Summary : An honest marshal in a corrupt mining colony on Io, Jupiter’s sunless third moon, is determined to confront a violent drug ring even though it may cost him his life. After his wife angrily deserts him, he waits alone for the arrival of killers hired by the company to eliminate him.
- Tagline : On Jupiter’s moon something deadly is happening.
