Key Takeaways:
– ‘Invasion USA’ was one of Chuck Norris’s major action movies which have been largely overlooked in contemporary cinema analysis.
– Despite limited theatrical success, the film made a massive hit on videocassette sales and had significant cultural impact across the globe.
– ‘Invasion USA’ showcases the potential of B-movies to be exciting, entertaining and to bring about real-world influence.

Step back in time with us to the hallowed bygone era of eighties and nineties action cinema. While the names Stallone, Schwarzenegger, Van Damme, Seagal, Snipes, and Gibson might ring clear in your ears, we’re here to remind you of another legend who graced silver screens with his masculine bravado. Chuck Norris!

Chuck Norris, in his heyday, was just as big a name in the action flick realm. But sadly, his contributions are not as celebrated today, probably because he primarily worked on elevated B-movies which didn’t have the grandeur of mainstream studio productions. Today, we’re going to spotlight one of his insanely entertaining classics – ‘Invasion USA’.

‘Invasion USA’ was a product of the 1984 Hollywood, an era defined by Cold War tensions and cinematic spectacles. Following his successful Vietnam War epics, ‘Missing In Action 1 and 2’, Norris signed a long-term contract with Cannon Pictures. Under their banner, Norris collaborated with director Joseph Zito for a tour-de-force action movie – ‘Invasion USA’.

Unlike most Cold War inspired movies of the era that offered nuanced depictions of the conflict, ‘Invasion USA’ delivered a high-voltage action drama that captured audiences’ imagination. It featured a Soviet operative Rostov, who leads a Latin American guerrilla army to commit acts of terror in Florida. But fear not, because Chuck Norris, as ex-agent Matt Hunter, takes it upon himself to tackle this threat head-on.

This film is an action-lover’s dream, filled with testosterone-soaked fight scenes, stunning stunts, and grand set pieces. One interesting trivia about the film is that Norris originally wanted Oscar-winning actor Whoopi Goldberg to play his love interest. However, the role eventually went to Melissa Prophet. This decision was a major setback to the Norris-Zito duo, and they never worked together again.

‘Invasion USA’ is a prime example of action cinema done right. The stunts were performed by real people, and the explosions were genuinely bone-shaking. It was one of Cannon Pictures’ most expensive projects, boasting a massive mall shootout scene that cost more than many full movies they produced.

Interestingly, the film was only a moderate success at the box office, raking in about $17.5 million, which was somewhat higher than its production budget of $12.5 million. However, upon hitting videocassette, the film took off, becoming MGM/UA’s best-selling cassette, second only to the classic ‘Gone with the Wind’.

But the story of ‘Invasion USA’ doesn’t end there. This action spectacle transcended borders and indirectly played a part in toppling Romania’s communist government. VHS tapes of the film were smuggled into communist-ruled Romania and became a source of inspiration for the people to revolt against their government.

The grandeur, real-world influence, and audience love that ‘Invasion USA’ enjoyed underline the power of cinema beyond A-level studio films. It’s proof that even so-called B-movies can hold their own, and in Chuck Norris’s case, even end up changing the world. Long live Chuck Norris and the infectious excitement of ’80s action cinema.

Key Takeaways:

– Those About To Die is a TV series set in ancient Rome, focusing on gladiatorial competition and the influence of politics and dynastic power struggles.
– The show boasts a diverse cast and multiple storyline threads, drawing comparisons to the hit show Game of Thrones.
– Problematic areas include underwhelming CGI, an overstuffed narrative, and unclear character investment.
– Standout performances are from Iwan Rheon, Moe Hashim, and Sara Martins-Court.
– The series premieres on July 18th on Peacock.

Hey, folks! Today let’s delve into a thrilling journey back to ancient Rome with the much-anticipated television series, “Those About To Die.” Imagine the captivating grandeur of the Roman Empire coupled with the heart-pounding excitement of gladiatorial combat, political power plays, and dynastic intrigue. Sounds thrilling, right?

Borrowing some flavors from evergreen epics like Spartacus, Cleopatra, and Ben-Hur, the series offers a refreshing exploration of the gladiatorial competition, a side of Rome rarely showcased. Directed by blockbuster filmmaker Roland Emmerich, the storyline weaves in various characters from different corners of the Roman Empire, and it’s a ride you might not want to miss!

One of the aspects that help this show stand out is the diversity of characters it introduces. The protagonist lineup includes the children of Emperor Vespasian played by the legendary Anthony Hopkins. The elder son, Titus, and the conniving younger son, Domitian, form the center of the power conflict. Their ambitious pursuit of leadership forms the backbone of this show.

Let’s not forget the gladiators and the chariot races either – the bread and butter of the Roman Empire’s entertainment. We have Tenax, played by Game of Thrones veteran Iwan Rheon, as the manager of a chariot team. Meanwhile, Kwame, a warrior turned slave brought to life by Moe Hashim, adds a new flavor to the mix.

Despite boasting an impressive ensemble cast, the series has its shortcomings. The narrative threads are many and varied, reaching every corner of the Roman Empire. However, the abundance of characters can make it hard for us as viewers to form emotional connections. Even some solid performances from Iwan Rheon as Tenax and Sara Martins-Court as Cala struggle to elevate the series above mediocrity. Some elements, including the excessive nudity and mediocre special effects, seem to be compensating for the lack of a compelling narrative.

It’s no secret that creating a drama series based in ancient Rome is ambitious. While grand in its scope, the series struggles with its budgetary constraints. Most of the scenes are shot in back alleys or places that bypass the need for grand architecture synonymous with the Roman era. So, unfortunately, if you’re looking for a visual spectacle, you might feel a little disappointed.

In spite of its shortcomings, “Those About To Die” is not without its merits. Some elements – such as the complicated personalities and the explicit action scenes – keep the series engaging. However, with the repetitive storyline and underwhelming execution, the show hardly manages to keep your attention tethered for the full length of its ten episodes.

In conclusion, “Those About To Die” is an ambitious attempt at reviving the grandeur of the Roman Empire on the small screen. However, like a gladiator who fails to win the crowd, the TV series feels somewhat underwhelming given its promised scale and spectacle. It isn’t a complete letdown, but it doesn’t live up to its extravagant premise either. If you’re intrigued, the series will premiere on Peacock on July 18th. Be sure to check it out and form your own verdict.

What’s your take on these period dramas? Exciting throwback or an overplayed card in the TV business house deck? Let’s discuss in the comments section!