The film tells the inventive story about three idealistic and thrill-seeking boys who combine their wits and astuteness to build their own spaceship. Accordingly, the boys blast-off into the galaxy and embark on journeys both whimsical and weird.

CRITIQUE

After Steven Spielberg’s masterpieces Close Encounters of the Third Kind and E.T., many films have followed in the footsteps. Obviously, they don’t carry the same weight or feel, but some of them are just as heartwarming and feature fine special effects. However, Explorers is a different film, one I definitely remember from my childhood. Watching it now, it comes off very corny and cheesy, ripping off both of Spielberg’s films. Despite this, I still get a kick out of the film.

The director, Joe Dante, also did the kick-ass Gremlin movies, and really Explorers isn’t supposed to be taken seriously, instead it does a good job presenting many gags and good humor. The acting is actually good from the three kids. Well, from then kids Ethan Hawke, who is doing well these days it seems, and River Phoenix, whose life sadly ended way too soon.

Before Dennis sent this DVD my way he viewed the film and made little notes to me. He liked the film until a certain point but got turned off by the tail end of it, and so he was not able to finish it. I will admit, the last 40 minutes make or break the film.  But I will say this, if you have an open mind and willing to accept that it goes from mystery to just silliness, then you’ll be able to view the film and enjoy it. But really, this film is geared more towards people like me who grew up with it or simply to kids. It’s not quite meant to be viewed or critiqued with adult eyes.

THE VIDEO

Paramount presents Explorers in 1:85.1 anamorphic widescreen. This presentation looks cleaned up the last time I saw it on TV in full screen, or pan and scam. Colors look clearer and more vivid, and the special effects come off quite nicely. Grain persists in some spots, as do specks here and there, but ultimately this is a good presentation.

THE AUDIO

Paramount presents Explorers in English 5.1 and Dolby Surround Sound. The 5.1 is the best to go. This was the first time I’ve viewed the film in stereo surround sound and it’s awesome. The quality of the music and sound effects presentation is almost flawless. 

THE EXTRAS

Despite two deleted scenes (one of them I could swear I’ve seen during a TV presentation way back). I think a “Where are they now?” would’ve been nice – a retrospective and/or reflection of the film. A commentary track by Joe Dante or even a tribute to the late River Phoenix would’ve been great, but no such luck. Indeed, many of Paramount's catalog films don’t get this kind of treatment, although this should change.

FINAL THOUGHTS