“Stargate” (1994)

Science Fiction

Running Time: 121 minutes

Written by: Dean Devlin and Roland Emmerich

Directed by: Roland Emmerich

Featuring: Kurt Russell, James Spader, Jaye Davidson and Viveca Lindfors

Colonel Jonathan “Jack” O’Neil: “Give my regards to King Tut, asshole.”

Critical Commentary

Released in 1994, “Stargate” is a science fiction adventure film directed by Roland Emmerich. It serves as the introduction to the Stargate franchise, which expanded into multiple television series and other movies. Set in both ancient Egypt and the present day, the film combines elements of archaeology, mythology, and interstellar travel to create a thrilling and imaginative story.

The film follows the character of Dr. Daniel Jackson (played by James Spader), an Egyptologist who is recruited by the military, led by Colonel Jack O’Neil (Kurt Russell), to decipher an ancient artifact known as the Stargate. As they activate the Stargate, they find themselves transported to a distant planet called Abydos. There, they encounter a society of humans who are being ruled by an alien known as Ra (Jaye Davidson), who claims to be the god of their people. Jackson and O’Neil must lead a rebellion against Ra and find a way to return to Earth.

One of the strengths of “Stargate” lies in its world-building. The concept of the Stargate, a portal capable of instantaneous travel across the universe, is intriguing and opens up vast possibilities for exploration. The film effectively blends ancient Egyptian mythology with science fiction, offering a unique take on both genres. The visual effects, considering the time of its release, are impressive, particularly during the sequences involving the Stargate and the alien planet.

The performances in the film are solid, with Kurt Russell delivering a strong performance as the hardened military leader, Colonel O’Neil. James Spader brings depth to his character, portraying Dr. Daniel Jackson as an intelligent and curious individual who becomes a key figure in unraveling the mysteries of the Stargate. Jaye Davidson as the enigmatic Ra adds an eerie presence to the film, creating a memorable antagonist.

The pacing of the movie keeps the audience engaged throughout, blending action, suspense, and a sense of wonder. The film successfully creates a sense of awe and discovery as the characters explore the alien world of Abydos and its ancient civilization. The movie also delves into themes of cultural imperialism, religious manipulation, and the power of knowledge, adding layers of depth to the story.

While “Stargate” has garnered a dedicated fanbase and spawned a successful franchise, some critics have pointed out that the film could have delved deeper into its intriguing concepts and characters. The plot, at times, may feel predictable, and certain character motivations could have been explored further.

“Stargate” is a visually impressive and entertaining science fiction adventure that successfully blends ancient mythology with futuristic concepts. With strong performances, captivating world-building, and a sense of wonder, the film lays a solid foundation for the expansive Stargate franchise. It may have some shortcomings, but overall, it remains a memorable and enjoyable entry in the genre.

The film’s strengths also lie in its attention to detail and the intricate design of the ancient Egyptian-inspired sets and costumes. The production team successfully creates a visually immersive experience, capturing the grandeur of the ancient civilization and the advanced technology of Ra’s empire. The soundtrack composed by David Arnold adds to the film’s epic feel, complementing the on-screen action and heightening the sense of adventure.

“Stargate” explores the concept of interstellar travel and the idea that ancient civilizations may have had contact with extraterrestrial beings. It sparks the imagination and encourages viewers to ponder the possibility of a hidden history and connections between different cultures. This aspect of the film’s storyline has resonated with audiences and contributed to the franchise’s enduring popularity.

The film’s main drawback is its occasionally simplistic approach to character development. While Kurt Russell and James Spader deliver solid performances, some of the supporting characters are underdeveloped and lack depth. This limits the emotional investment in their fates and relationships, making them feel somewhat one-dimensional. Additionally, the romance subplot between Jackson and Sha’uri (Mili Avital) could have been explored more extensively to enhance the emotional stakes of the story.

Despite these minor flaws, “Stargate” remains a highly enjoyable science fiction adventure that captivates with its imaginative premise, impressive visuals, and thrilling action sequences. It successfully introduces audiences to the Stargate universe and leaves them hungry for further exploration. The film’s enduring legacy is a testament to its ability to capture the imagination and set the stage for the expansive franchise that followed.

“Stargate” is a classic science fiction film that balances ancient mythology and futuristic concepts, offering an exciting and visually stunning adventure. Its flaws in character development are overshadowed by its strengths in world-building and exploration of captivating themes. If you’re a fan of science fiction or enjoy stories that blend history and imagination, “Stargate” is definitely worth a watch.

One aspect that sets “Stargate” apart is its commitment to creating a sense of wonder and discovery. The film takes the audience on a journey to an alien world with its own unique culture, language, and technology. The attention to detail in creating the Abydos civilization adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Exploring the mysteries of the Stargate and uncovering the truth behind Ra’s rule creates a sense of anticipation and keeps viewers engaged throughout the film.

The action sequences in “Stargate” are well-executed and provide excitement and adrenaline. From intense shootouts to thrilling aerial dogfights, the film offers a good balance of spectacle and character-driven moments. The use of practical effects and well-choreographed stunts adds a sense of realism to the action, making it more immersive for the audience.

Moreover, the film successfully explores themes of imperialism and cultural exchange. The clash between Ra’s oppressive rule and the Abydos people’s desire for freedom raises questions about power dynamics and the consequences of colonization. This adds depth and relevance to the story, making it more than just a sci-fi adventure.

The collaboration between the military and the scientific community is another intriguing aspect of the film. The contrasting perspectives of Colonel O’Neil, who represents the military’s approach of force and control, and Dr. Jackson, who embodies the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, create an engaging dynamic. This dynamic drives the narrative and allows for exploration of complex themes such as the power of knowledge and the importance of cultural understanding.

“Stargate” is a captivating and entertaining science fiction film that combines ancient mythology, interstellar travel, and exciting action. Its commitment to world-building, sense of wonder, and exploration of relevant themes make it a standout in the genre. While it may have minor flaws in character development, the film’s strengths far outweigh them. “Stargate” is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and adventure, and it serves as a strong foundation for the beloved Stargate franchise that followed.

Another noteworthy aspect of “Stargate” is its effective blend of different genres. While primarily a science fiction adventure, the film also incorporates elements of archaeology, mythology, and even a touch of horror. This multi-genre approach adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the story, appealing to a wider range of audiences. It creates a rich tapestry of storytelling that keeps viewers engaged and invested in the outcome.

The film’s exploration of ancient Egypt and its mythology is particularly fascinating. Drawing inspiration from real-world history, “Stargate” weaves a tale that suggests a connection between ancient Egyptian civilization and advanced alien technology. This concept of ancient astronauts and the influence of extra-terrestrial beings on human culture has been a subject of intrigue and speculation for years, and the film explores it in a compelling and imaginative way.

Furthermore, the film benefits from strong chemistry among its cast. Kurt Russell and James Spader share a believable camaraderie and effectively portray the contrasting personalities of their characters. Their interactions drive much of the film’s emotional core and provide moments of levity amidst the high-stakes adventure. The supporting cast, including Jaye Davidson as the imposing Ra and Mili Avital as the spirited Sha’uri, also deliver solid performances that enhance the overall quality of the film.

One of the enduring strengths of “Stargate” is its ability to stand the test of time. Despite being released in 1994, the film’s visual effects and production design still hold up well today. While advancements in CGI have made significant strides since then, the practical effects and attention to detail in “Stargate” remain impressive. This helps to create a more immersive experience for viewers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the world of the film.

“Stargate” \is a highly enjoyable and imaginative sci-fi adventure that successfully blends different genres. Its exploration of ancient Egyptian mythology, solid performances, and impressive visual effects make it a standout film in the genre. While it may have some minor flaws, it remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, mythology, or thrilling adventures, “Stargate” is definitely worth a watch.

Technical Commentary

Video

Presented in 1080p utilizing the VC-1 codec “Stargate” finally received the high-definition upgrade fans deserve. The colouring problems that plagued the prior version have been corrected this time around, removing the “hot” skin tones, and artificial brightness boosting. On this version, we have a natural colour scheme that accurately reproduces the spectrum of the source material, creating a highly appealing experience.

Audio

“Stargate” offers an equally impressive experience. Lionsgate continues to demonstrate their dedication to offering 7.1 audio tracks on the majority of their titles, and the trend continues with this release. As with most action/sci-fi films, Stargate employs a robust sound design that contains a relentless mix of effects and music to create an epic feel. 

Special Features

• Original Theatrical Cut
• Extended Cut
• Audio Commentary by Writer/Director Roland Emmerich and Writer/Producer Dean Devlin
• “Deciphering the Gate: Concepts and Casting” Featurette
• “Opening the Gate: The Making of the Movie” Feturette
• “Passing Through the Gate: The Legacy” Featurette
• “Is There a Stargate?” Featurette
• “The Making of Stargate” Documentary
• 5 Original Stargate Previews
• B-Roll Footage
• Gag Reel