A struggling Wild West show finds
dinosaurs on the loose in Mexico, and decides to exploit
the discovery. The real star of this movie is the
stop-motion animation done by the grand master of
non-computerized special effects, Ray Harryhausen. Crisp
color photography adds to the pulse-pounding scenes of
prehistoric predators. The production problems of this
movie help explain its lack of commercial success. In
addition, a weak script and wooden acting also detract
from the enjoyment. The plot drags and takes too long to
get to the "monsters of the lost valley" part.
Once the special effects kick in, things get more lively.
The scenes of riders roping Gwangi are thrilling. The
show-ring battle, however, between Gwangi and the
elephant is not up to RH's usual excellent standards. The
elephant is too obviously an animated model. The segment
copies an earlier RH film, "20 Million Miles to
Earth." Gwangi rampaging through the Mexican town
recalls King Kong rampaging through the streets of New
York, but the comparison ends there. The spectacular fire
in the great cathedral is an exciting visual display.
Dedicated collectors of classic fantasy films or
steadfast fans of Ray Harryhausen will want this one for
their collection, regardless. ;-)
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