Comedy, Horror Features Examples Of Overkill (Press, 3 April 1989)

The news story discusses three movies currently playing in cinemas as of 3 April 1989, highlighting their themes and overall reception. The first film, "A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master," is directed by Renny Harlin and continues the popular horror series featuring Freddy Krueger, a supernatural killer haunting the dreams of teenagers. The review points out that while sequels often fail to match their predecessors, the "Elm Street" series stands out due to its originality and impressive special effects. The film's plot revolves around Freddy seeking revenge on his killers through nightmarish scenarios, with vivid imagery showcasing the creativity of dream sequences. The review implies that the premise of a supernatural villain is getting somewhat tired but acknowledges that the film still manages to deliver engaging visuals. The second film, "The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!" directed by David Zucker, is a satire of police films that falls flat in delivering fresh humour. The review suggests that the comedic approach of piling on jokes leads to a sense of obligation to laugh rather than genuine amusement. Leslie Nielsen stars as a police lieutenant solving a plot against the Queen during a baseball game. While the film lacks the wittiness of previous Z.A.Z. productions, it is still deemed better than the "Police Academy" series, signalling its mediocre reception. Lastly, "Beyond Gravity," directed by Garth Maxwell, is a New Zealand film that offers a simpler love story between two young men, Richard and Johnny. Shot in Auckland, the film focuses on their brief friendship, highlighting themes of love and resilience in the face of societal challenges, particularly in the context of the AIDS crisis. Maxwell aims to create an entertaining narrative rather than delve deep into character exploration. The film's title evokes notions of space and freedom, symbolised through Richard’s interests, and its visual style is praised for its beauty. Despite its straightforward approach, "Beyond Gravity" is recognised as a commendable effort from a young filmmaker, showcasing the potential for future projects. Overall, the review expresses a mix of appreciation and criticism across the three films, indicating trends in audience interest and the evolving landscape of cinema at the time.

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