This used to be one of my favorite films until I began getting offended at hearing the Lord's name in vain. This movie is brutal in that regard, but it's still such an interesting story and character portrait that I still look at it but not often. Jon Voight's character is the only reason I would look at it again.
Voight, as "Manny," provides about as intense and good an acting performance as you could ask for. He's riveting in here. As tough as he is - a hardened criminal who escapes from prison with "Buck" (Eric Roberts) - he Roberts a little speech during this story which is about as good a parable as Jesus gave in His brief stay on Earth. He lectures his friend about being humble enough to serve, even in the most humiliating circumstances. I've just never forgotten Voight's speech.
This is an action-packed, rough film with rough people and very rough language. The language is actually ludicrous at times with over-the-top characters like the ones played by John P. Ryan and Kenneth McMillian, two of the most profane actors of their day. Being a Golan-Globus film of the period ('70s and '80s), this film is overridden by low-life characters, a trademark of those scummy filmmakers.
Back on the positive side, the story features great suspense, and a real feel for the bleak, snowy Alaskan terrain. The last 30 minutes is the best, because of less dialog, a pounding music beat and a great, memorable ending.
Overall, if you can take the blaspheming assault on your ears, this movie is worth it for the great adventure and atmospheric feel of cold and suffering....and, if for nothing else, Voight's fabulous performance.
Voight, as "Manny," provides about as intense and good an acting performance as you could ask for. He's riveting in here. As tough as he is - a hardened criminal who escapes from prison with "Buck" (Eric Roberts) - he Roberts a little speech during this story which is about as good a parable as Jesus gave in His brief stay on Earth. He lectures his friend about being humble enough to serve, even in the most humiliating circumstances. I've just never forgotten Voight's speech.
This is an action-packed, rough film with rough people and very rough language. The language is actually ludicrous at times with over-the-top characters like the ones played by John P. Ryan and Kenneth McMillian, two of the most profane actors of their day. Being a Golan-Globus film of the period ('70s and '80s), this film is overridden by low-life characters, a trademark of those scummy filmmakers.
Back on the positive side, the story features great suspense, and a real feel for the bleak, snowy Alaskan terrain. The last 30 minutes is the best, because of less dialog, a pounding music beat and a great, memorable ending.
Overall, if you can take the blaspheming assault on your ears, this movie is worth it for the great adventure and atmospheric feel of cold and suffering....and, if for nothing else, Voight's fabulous performance.