The Final Programme (1973)
A trio of scientists plan to create a self-replicating, immortal, hermaphrodite using the Final Programme developed by a dead, Nobel Prize-winning scientist. Meanwhile Jon Finch as Jerry Cornelius - Nobel Prize winner, rock star and secret agent - embarks on a quest to free his sister from the clutches of his evil brother Frank.
If i said this was based on a Michael Moorcock novel of the same name that's probably all you need to know about this bonkers but delightfully stylish slice of British dystopian future science fiction. Director Robert Fuest does his best to make sure the plot doesn't get in the way of the stunning visuals.
For such a warped oddity this features an amazing cast of veteran actors as well as cult actresses Jenny Runacre and Julie Ege.
Whilst the story may not be the least bit memorable the imagery will stay with you. Think The Avengers, Fuest's Dr. Phibes films, A Clockwork Orange and perhaps a bit of Bond too not to mention a psychedelic splash of Monty Python and you might be halfway there.
|