Manborg

Manborg is a 2011 Canadian sci-fi action horror film directed by Steven Kostanski and starring Matthew Kennedy, Adam Brooks, and Meredith Sweeney. The movie is an independent, low-budget project released by Astron-6, a Canadian film production ensemble that also developed a reputation for creating enjoyable genre-bending films.

The storyline of Manborg is set against a dystopian post-apocalyptic backdrop where the world lies in ruins after an ill-fated war with hell's army. Hell's legions, led by the sinister Count Draculon, are the victors, and they now rule the earth with an ironclad fist. The human race seems doomed, with Count Draculon's forces running rampant, unrestricted and unopposed. But all hope is not lost, as a new hero rises from the ashes of this post-apocalyptic chaos, known simply as Manborg.

Matthew Kennedy portrays the protagonist, a deceased soldier resurrected and enhanced through primitive, cybernetic technology as the Manborg. Endowed with mechanical enhancements and fuelled by his desire to avenge humanity, Manborg stands as the last bastion of hope in a world consumed by darkness. Influenced by classic 80s sci-fi movies and video games, the character, Manborg, embodies a range of beloved sci-fi, action stereotypes—the renegade hero, the soldier with a heart of iron and desire for vengeance, and a mech-warrior dealing out justice.

Adam Brooks stars as Count Draculon, the villainous leader of the demonic forces, who emerges as a formidable adversary for our hero, Manborg. Brooks delivers a stellar performance, setting the tone of a terrorizing antagonist.

Meredith Sweeney is introduced as Mina, one of the few survivors in this devastated world. An experienced fighter, her paths cross with Manborg, contributing to the story's progression significantly. The interaction between the characters forms the crux of this story, as the movie transforms from a straightforward sci-fi flick into a blend of action, horror, friendship, and self-discovery.

Director Steven Kostanski has demonstrated an exceptional skill in creating a movie that, despite its constraints, manages to capture the essence of a comic book-style action-packed narrative. He takes a seemingly simple storyline and injects it with humor, action, heroism, and drama, while never losing the dystopian and gothic ambience. The pace of the film is unabatedly high octane, with the audience given a front-row seat to the explosive, fast-paced, and intense action sequences.

The visual effects in Manborg, considering its budget, are commendable. The filmmakers have managed to craft a visually appealing cinematic experience. The retro-sci-fi aesthetics emphasized by the vibrant, lurid color palette contribute to the movie's unique comic-book charm. The action sequences are thoughtfully choreographed, and the use of stop-motion animation techniques brings out a nostalgic charm reminiscent of old action arcade games.

Amidst the barrages of visual effects and high-octane activity, Manborg also offers fleeting moments of hilarity and satirical humor. Its playful self-awareness combines with a spirited cast delivering over-the-top performances in the best possible way, all of which adds up to a movie that will have viewers laughing and invested in the narrative simultaneously.

The film has a run time of 60 minutes, keeping the narrative short, focused, and tightly-packed. The soundtrack complements the film's energy, further enhancing the overall 80s arcade-like aura.

In conclusion, Manborg is an audacious, creatively accomplished piece that, through its unique vision and faithful execution, delivers an entertainingly absurd rollercoaster ride. The film does not take itself too seriously and instead revels in its ridiculousness, taking the audience along for a joyride. Manborg is an ode to the 80s style action films, expressing a nostalgic fondness for the genre, and it is a must-watch for fans of comedy horror and sci-fi action. With its unabashedly fun plot, engaging characters, and a commendable production value, Manborg presents a fascinating cinematic experience quite unlike any other.