Director – Simon Wincer (The Phantom, Harlequin)
Starring – Peter Phelps (Baywatch, Point Break), Nick Waters (Fortress, The Flying Doctors), and John Larking (E.A.R.T.H. Force, A Cry in the Dark)
Release Date – 1987
Rating – 4/5
Blu Release – 3/5
With each release that I get from Umbrella Entertainment I find myself becoming more and more impressed with ozploitation cinema. While a few were not something I enjoyed I did find several films that truly impressed me. Hell, some of these films quickly became some of my favorite flicks. A few weeks back I was sent the war drama The Lighthorsemen from Umbrella and was slightly curious as to why the film was available for me to review. This is not your typical ozploitation flick.
In fact, it’s not really a traditional ozploitation film as we know them. It is an Australian film but it was part of a much bigger production. It looked like something I would have enjoyed as a kid when I was on a drama kick. Regardless, when I was starting my Umbrella marathon I decided it would fit in perfectly after Child’s Play and Harlequin. I want to thank Umbrella for sending this one over. It’s an amazing film that truly deserves your time.
**Spoiler Alert** The film follows the Australian Light Horse regime and their involvement in the first World War andthe battle between the British and Turkish forces over the control of Gaza. **Spoiler alert**
The Lighthorsemen is a fantastic film that I’ve never heard anyone speak of. I know a lot of my regular readers will bitch and moan about this one not being a horror flick but I don’t give a rat’s ass. It’s one of the best war dramas I have ever seen and its easily one of the best written films I’ve laid my eyes on.
The acting in this is absolutely amazing from each and every cast member. Like most movies, some of the cast has bigger roles than others but this one has absolutely no weak links. The characters are so well written and the cast does an amazing job bringing them to life. The story for this one is drama filled and action oriented but I can’t vouch for it’s authenticity. As an American, we are never taught other countries history. However, from a film standpoint, it’s a fantastic film that kept me glued to the screen from beginning to end. You find yourself completely enthralled with the story.
Finally, the film has a few bloody moments but the body count is not the focus of the film. It’s a story rich movie with great characters that holds the viewer’s attention. Overall, The Lighthorsemen is not going to be for everyone and not for some of you looking for a horror flick to relax to. However, if you want a period piece with a war flare then this one is for you. I highly recommend this release from Umbrella.
Special Features:
Audio commentary with director Simon Wincer
New interview with producer Antony I. Ginnane
New interview with director Simon Wincer
New interview with composer Mario Millo
Deleted scenes
Production gallery
Theatrical trailer
