Granted, I initially feared that this film would be disastrous and a complete waste of time. All the available indicators pointed out that it was just an attempt to cash in on the huge success of the original "The Fly", release not even a year before: quickly scripted, re-using sets and scenery of the original and the plot sounded too much like a repeating of the events occurring in the first. Well, I'm more than happy to announce that I couldn't be more wrong! "Return of the Fly" is an excellent film and definitely worthy of its classic predecessor. It already opens terrific, with grim images of the funeral of Helene Delambre, the heroine of the first film. Her brother-in-law François is forced to tell Helene's son Philippe about the tragedy that overcame his father all those years ago. The fade of his father encourages Philippe a devoted scientist as well to continue and finish his work, accompanied by a friend and François himself. I won't spoil what happens next, as it's too different from what you expect and certainly worth fining out yourself. "Return of the Fly" is a great film for multiple reasons. First and foremost, there's the more extended role of Vincent Price. I can't explain what it is about him, but his inimitable charisma makes every movie he stars in a must-see and his monologues (although often about tedious substance) are compelling beyond words. Whatever he speaks about I hang on Vincent Price's lips! Another reason to state this film's greatness is the ingenious use of multiple subplots. Aside being a cool sci-fi adventure, the "Return of the Fly"-script also focuses on typical human greed, betrayal and phobias/ghosts from the past. For some reason (budget-related, perhaps?) it's entirely filmed in black and white, while the original was in color. That's hardly an obstacle, though, since it increases the eerie atmosphere immensely. Besides, the make-up effects are a lot more repellent in this sequel, so the lack of color also neutralizes the effect of the nasty "human fly" images. The ending comes rather abrupt, unfortunately and it's my own personal opinion that Brett Halsey can't handle the leading role David Hedinson did in the first. Luckily, there's the almighty Vincent Price for the good acting and the incredibly beautiful Danielle De Metz as eye-candy. In conclusion: you won't hear me say that "Return of
" outshines the original milestone, but it equally is a must for genre fans and I can't deny that it was more fun to watch. Highest possible recommendation!
Review of Return of the Fly
