"The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai" turned out to be a box office failure in 1984, but that lack of success would later morph into cult status. Watching this film, that piece of information doesn't really come as a surprise. In fact, this is the first film that I've probably watched this year that seemed to be attempting just that... cult fame. I vaguely remember it arriving in theaters (I want to say it had a fair promotional push), though it obviously didn't pique my curiosity enough as it made the "First time viewings" category.
My biggest issue with "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai" is that it's trying too hard... way too hard. Peter Weller assumes the role of Banzai, a scientist, surgeon, musician, and probably sushi chef in his spare time. The guy is brilliant, well-traveled, has a fan club along with a comic book, and easily woos a crowd with song. There isn't anything the guy can't do, making him too perfect. Banzai has a crew basically to add extra flare and give Banzai people to converse with because a film with just inner monologue would have been boring.
However, I don't want to totally take the film down as it offers some inventive ideas. Naming all the aliens John, with a strange variety of last names, and have them mangle common English phrases is amusing. Having John Lithgow as the crazy alien leading the attack is equally as inspired, although I wish he had more screen time. In the end, with Banzai's perfection, there really isn't any tension leading to the final outcome. The 80s production values could add or subtract points, depending on your viewpoint.
It is interesting to note the movie promotes a sequel during the closing credits. Due to a poor box office and a studio bankruptcy, that didn't happen. It would have been intriguing to see the direction of the story since the characters had been established. Otherwise, a fair attempt at making a cult classic.
Rating: 5/10
Movies I've previously seen: 6
First time viewings: 125
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