Clash of the Titans

"Clash of the Titans" of 1981 is a wonderful showcase for stop-motion modeling mixed with live-action. The movie based on the Ancient Greek mythology story of Perseus. The movie plot Perseus' journey to seek his destiny in battling various monsters such as the Gorgon Medusa, Calibos, and the Kraken, among others to secure the hand of Andromeda, daughter of Queen Cassiopeia. A big legendary adventure with big fun. The actors and actresses were very well casted for their roles. Harry Hamlin was born for the role as the Greek hero, Perseus. Harry Hamlin captures Perseus's character perfectly. Laurence Oliver gives a very excellent performance as Zeus as he exercises aggressive authority along with kindness and helpfulness when necessary. Maggie Smith is very brilliant in her role as goddess Thetis. Judi Bowker was wonderful in her role as Princess Andromeda. Burgess Meredith was a very good choice as Ammon, the father figure for Perseus who guides and supports Perseus on his journey. Ray Harryhausen's special effects are very spectacular and are way better than the CGI that most modern movies use today. The lurking terror of Medusa's lair, the menace of the Stygian Witches, and the raw overwhelming wish-fulfillment of the whole epic struggle are so charming. Perseus's battle against the Medusa is still one of the highlights of the movie. The monsters including the Medusa look so excellent and almost real in the special effects. There are a lot of monsters, and dramatic scenes here that make this tale of Greek mythology come alive. I love Greek Mythology stories. If you like fantasy movies about Ancient Greek mythology and can appreciate stop-motion animation, then definitely see the classic Clash Of The Titans movie from 1981.

This is a terrible film overall, but the sheer boyhood joy of experiencing the over-the-top Greek fairy tale again and again make it too fun. Saturday night TV was where this movie came on all the time; crazy that it lives on with today's technology. The effects still amaze, even over twenty years later, and are worth the cheese factor.

Harry Hamlin is a terrible actor. The rest of Ray Harryhausen's magnum opus makes up for it. Known for his pioneering special effects, Harryhausen went all out creating so many awesome visual feasts. By this time, his style was a bit outdated but was still awesome to watch. Giant scorpions, Cerberus, Medusa, pegasus, a unique take on the Kraken, and my personal favorite in the film, the giant vulture. Plus, it is one of the only rated PG movies with exposed breasts.