Iceman (1984)

I saw this as a kid, and I remember being enthralled. Today, it’s not bad.

Story is interesting, but I feel like it needed something, maybe one more act? He’s discovered, thawed, lives in a bear enclosure, makes a friend, bangs his head on a helicopter, and goes for a walk. That annoying helicopter is what drives the story? Somehow, that’s not enough.

And what’s the pay-off in the end? All stories, even tragic ones, need pay-offs. How did Shepherd grow from this experience? How did the world become a better place?

Writing isn’t very good. Every dialogue exchange feels very scripted.

Lone is really good. With his performance he projects an innocence, wonder, and sadness. His vocalizations are believable and his make-up and dental prosthetics are especially good. Hutton is OK. There’s never been anything that really stands out about him, looks-wise or performance-wise. He’s not much more than a grown up version of Justin Timberlake. Tolkan, Glover, and Straithairn are welcome faces in supporting roles.

Encino Man taken slightly more seriously.