TRON (1982)

 

A computer hacker is abducted into the digital world and forced to participate in gladiatorial games where his only chance of escape is with the help of a heroic security program.

From memory: An imaginative and innovative sci-fi tale set as a thrilling sound-and-light show within the innards of a computer; all new and exciting to watch at the time, the plot itself, not so much.

Halliwell*: "Complicated science fantasy chiefly interesting for its computerized blend of live action and animation, which isn't always successful."

Maltin**: "State-of-the-art special effects are stunning, but the story runs out of steam too soon, with only Bridges' charisma to keep it afloat.. Disappointing Disney production." 

 

Wise Blood (1979)

A Southerner--young, poor, ambitious but uneducated--determines to become something in the world and decides that the best way to do that is to become a preacher and start up his own church.

Quite loyal adaptation of Flannery O'Connor's novel with some good performances which brings the grotesqueness of plot and the characters to full power.

Halliwell***: "Odd story, not easy to like but with many impressive moments."

Maltin***1/2: "Brilliant translation of Flannery O'Connor's peculiar hell-and-salvation tale. Flawless cast, ledd by Dourif..inhabits Southern Gothic world as though born in it."