Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, January 28, 1995 TAG: 9501310036
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: B12 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: MIKE MAYO CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
It all has to do with an immortal good guy, MacLeod (Christopher Lambert), and an immortal bad guy, Cain (Mario Van Peebles). They're fond of saying, "There can only be one," in reference to immortals, despite the fact that there are two of them, not to mention Cain's two sidekicks. In any case, they spend the whole movie trying to chop each other's head off.
The plot, such as it is, starts in medieval Japan, zips forward to contemporary New York and then wanders briefly back to 15th-century Scotland, then to the French Revolution where heroine Deborah Unger gets dolled up in some tight-bodiced outfits. It all ends, fittingly, in Newark, New Jersey. Throughout, supporting characters make references to the first two films, but this one really doesn't have anything to do with those efforts.
Paul Ohl's script is a series of often static scenes that connect the swordfights and special effects. Director Andy Morahan demonstrates no affinity for the action scenes. They're dark and difficult to see, making it easier for the stunt doubles to do their bit. Most of the effects have to do with "morphing" characters or backgrounds. They're handled competently enough, but they serve no purpose.
Likewise, the characters have no depth or personality. They're simply stick figures who move around on some impressively large sets, and get out of the way when the effects take over.
Formula sequels don't promise much, and "Highlander: The Final Dimension" certainly doesn't deliver. Expect to see it at the local video store within a few months.
Highlander: The Final Dimension *1/2
A Dimension release playing at the Salem Valley 8, Valley View Mall 6. 90 min. Rated R for violence, strong language.
by CNB