I saw this when it was shown on TV in the late 70s. I must have been around eight years old. Back then, I thought it was the coolest thing ever. Despite seeing it only once, it remained in my memory all these years as an darkly glam epic adventure. Watching it some forty years later (in its original TV version), I'm struck by how shambolic it is. That's not to say it isn't highly entertaining. In fact, I still found some ability to regress into my eight year old self and enjoy the film on its own level. It helps that I love seeing the late 70s on film. As an adult, I found some interest in the story of the mad scientist. Somehow, I can relate to a frustrated scientist/inventor with a lot of talent but not enough funding. The actor playing Abner Devereaux provides the best performance in the film. KISS are interesting to watch. Surprisingly, they don't do very much. It's almost like they're disconnected from the main storyline for most of the film. Finally, near the end of the film, they take centre stage and fight their way to victory. I might rate this ten for enjoyment and five for quality... averaging to seven. I loved the spectacle of KISS shooting rays and Gene Simmons blowing fire, etc... The plot, however, has the cohesion of an undercooked casserole. Therefore, set your expectations low and just enjoy this unique piece of rock n'roll history.
Review of Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park
