Michael Moriarty

Pale Rider - 4/5

This movie has all the standard western tropes but elevates them by layering in meaning via Christian metaphor. It’s not nearly as gritty as many of its peers, which allows a less muddied overall experience with a more fulfilling story and ultimate resolution.

Closest comparison: It’s like Shane by way of The Outlaw Josey Wales.

Setting: Western
Plot: Western
Tone: Western

The Stuff (1985) - 2/5

This is a B movie with a lot of heart that has too much wrong with it to carry it at the end of the day. It has a solid tongue-in-cheek plot and approaches it with a smart tone, walking the line between comedy and pop horror. Unfortunately it doesn’t always work, and the poor acting and production values really hurt it overall. There are a few very impressive special effects shots, though mostly the effects are laughable, and the pitfalls here never make themselves offensive. This film soars past the ‘so bad it’s good’ threshold and is definitely worth a watch for fans of ‘80s schlock.

Closest comparison: It’s the intersection of The Thing, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and They Live.

Setting: Small Town Drama
Plot: ‘80s Pop Horror
Tone: Adventure Thriller