When Time Ran Out... - A Volcanic Eruption of Emotions

A Tropical Getaway Gone Wrong (and Right!)

Picture this: paradise, sun-drenched beaches, and a volcano threatening to turn everything into a fiery hellscape. That, in a nutshell, is "When Time Ran Out...", a 1980 action-adventure-drama directed by James Goldstone. This cinematic volcano promises a thrilling eruption of suspense, intrigue, and surprisingly, quite a bit of human drama. Prepare for a molten-hot ride!

Synopsis: Paradise Lost? Not Quite.

A luxurious South Pacific island resort, the epitome of idyllic escapism, finds itself under threat from a rumbling volcano. Amidst the impending doom, a power struggle ignites between the resort's ambitious developer and the grizzled drilling foreman, who knows a thing or two about escaping fiery doom (or so he thinks!). Jacqueline Bisset, William Holden, and Paul Newman find themselves caught in the crossfire – of lava flows and corporate greed. Let's just say, cocktails are not the only things bubbling.

A Spectacle Under Pressure (Literally)

Goldstone's direction expertly blends the imminent danger of the erupting volcano with the simmering tensions between the characters. The cinematography captures the breathtaking beauty of the island setting before unleashing a stunning display of volcanic fury. Think "Apocalypse Now" meets a Hawaiian vacation commercial, with a dash of Indiana Jones thrown in for good measure. The special effects, considering the year, hold up surprisingly well; they're like a vintage sports car - a little rusty but undeniably cool.

Stars Aligning Amidst the Ash

The film boasts a stellar cast. William Holden, with his weathered charm, anchors the story perfectly as the hardened foreman. Jacqueline Bisset radiates elegance and strength amidst the chaos – her performance is like a serene oasis in a volcanic wasteland. And let's be honest, seeing Paul Newman in an action movie in a Hawaiian shirt? Pure cinematic gold. The supporting cast provides the perfect background hum to this explosive symphony of acting.

Themes of Greed, Nature, and… Hawaiian Shirts?

"When Time Ran Out..." is more than just a disaster movie; it's a commentary on unchecked ambition and humanity's fragile relationship with nature. The looming volcano serves as a metaphor for the consequences of ignoring environmental warnings and the potential cost of prioritising profits over people's safety. It’s a surprisingly poignant message amidst the explosions and running from lava flows – almost as if mother nature herself is tired of Hawaiian shirt-wearing tourists.

Verdict: A Thrilling Escape from the Ordinary

"When Time Ran Out..." is an old-school adventure that expertly balances thrilling action with surprisingly complex characters and themes. While its special effects might show their age, the film’s gripping story, charismatic cast, and stunning visuals remain captivating. It's a cinematic escape to paradise... with a fiery twist. Rating: 4.6/5 stars (almost a perfect score, despite the volcanic activity). Recommended for: Fans of classic disaster movies, lovers of 1980s cinema, and anyone seeking a thrilling escape. In conclusion, "When Time Ran Out..." is a cinematic volcano: initially breathtakingly beautiful, then erupting into a thrilling adventure that leaves you both exhilarated and, quite possibly, craving a piña colada. Just remember to keep a safe distance from any active volcanoes while enjoying it.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 19 Jan 2025