The Phantom

Lee Falk's comic strip hero does not enjoy the name recognition of, say, Batman and Superman, both of whom the Phantom predated. Further hampering his bid for big screen success is that he is a low-tech hero who fights piracy, greed and cruelty on a remote jungle island (which would seem to limit his opportunities). Billy Zane looks dashing in his purple suit, co-star Kristy Swanson looks "pretty in those woodsy flannels" and Treat Williams livens things up as the urbane villain looking for the fabled Skulls of Touganda. But as with The Shadow, don't hold your breath for a sequel. Not a necessary purchase. (K. Lee Benson)