Monte Hellman directs this strange, dark portrait of sex and power in a primitive setting, based on Alberto Vázquez-Figueroa's novel La Iguana, which in turn was inspired by the real-life tale of a 19th-century sailor who enslaved a group of castaways on an island in the Galapagos. Hellman and screenwriter Steven Gaydos add elements from The Phantom of the Opera to this 1988 film, weaving a harsh but beautiful story of a horribly scarred sailor who declares war on mankind to avenge the evils that have been perpetrated on him out of fear and intolerance. Everett McGill plays the angry, defiant Oberlus as a ruthless philosopher-dictator, one moment thoughtful and respectful, the next fierce and vengeful. Maru Valdivielso is Carmen, a free spirit in the constrictive confines of Spanish society—a “monster” herself for her social transgressions—who is captured by Oberlus and made his sexual slave. Michael Madsen costars as Oberlus's first captive turned faithful lieutenant, Sebastián. Iguana is a difficult work to define—it's neither an adventure nor a romance, and the character of Oberlus doesn't come across as a heroic figure. Nonetheless, it's compelling and often fascinating, and the stark beauty of the rocky island conveys a dreamy atmosphere more characteristic of a foreign art production than an American drama. This newly remastered Blu-ray edition has been supervised by Hellman and features the uncut version for the first time, along with a video interview with the director, and a booklet. A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)
Iguana
Raro, 88 min., not rated, Blu-ray: $29.95 Volume 30, Issue 1
Iguana
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