She

A visually stunning post-apocalyptic adventure, She, directed by Avi Nesher and released in 1984, ambitiously marries the aesthetic of ancient mythology with the bleakness of a dystopian future. With mesmerizing performances from Sandahl Bergman, David Goss, and Quin Kessler, the movie emerges as a distinctive work of 80s genre filmmaking.

She, set in a future world 23 years after 'The Cancellation', a catastrophic event that caused an apocalyptic break down of modern civilization, is based on H.Rider Haggard's novel of the same name. The world has become a strange fusion of ancient barbarism and fragmented technology where small isolated communities and tribes live in a world marred by radiation. Borders, political orders, and large societies have ceased to exist, replaced by a brutal world where survival is the only code.

In this thrilling setting, the film focuses on the character She, portrayed by the talented Sandahl Bergman, most famous for her role in Conan the Barbarian. She is a deity-like figure venerated by a small tribe, a powerful entity possessing supernatural strength. Dominating the screen with her charismatic performance, Bergman brings life to her character's larger-than-life presence that stands as a pillar of hope and courage.

The story takes its course when two travelers, Tom (David Goss) and Dick (Harrison Muller), wander into She's domain searching for their lost sister. The plot thickens when She, driven by an ancient prophecy, sees a different future for these two travelers and decides to help them on their quest. This odyssey-like journey changes their lives forever, and through their challenging experiences, they discover a profound understanding of themselves and the world they inhabit.

Quin Kessler gives a fantastic performance as the antagonist, Godan, preparing the ground for an epic face-off with She's courageous team. Throughout the journey, the various tribes they encounter represent a surreal world of grotesque monsters and bizarre customs, making every moment of the adventure unpredictable and exciting.

She perfectly encapsulates the 80s genre cinematography with a grunge and yet fascinating visual appeal. The atmosphere is filled with remnants of the old world, creating a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the unfolding story. Also worth mentioning is the costuming and set design, both terrific exemplars of creative world-building.

The beautifully composed original score complements the unconventional visuals and narrative style. It effectively contributes to set the mood, build tension, and accentuate key dramatic moments, crucial ingredients for an engaging fantasy tale.

From a filmmaking perspective, the use of practical effects and set pieces provides an organic aesthetic, chronicling the atmospheric of the world of She. The movie also doesn't shy from showcasing low-budget special effects that have their own charm and capably build the sci-fi element.

While the plot from a surface perspective appears to be driven by a quest, the underlying themes of survival, leadership, loyalty, and human strength subtly and powerfully envelop the narrative, with Bergman's strong lead character forming an insightful feminine counterpoint to the overwhelmingly masculine landscape of most science-fiction films.

In terms of genre, She is an unusual blend of fantasy, adventure, the post-apocalypse and action, with hints of drama and romance added to the mix. Its mystifying world combined with extraordinary characters and a compelling story stands as an intriguing part of the 80s mainstream cinema. The movie — with its non-linear storytelling, rich symbolism, and atypical world-building — might be a bit challenging for mainstream audiences. However, for viewers with an affinity for genre-bending narratives and dystopian aesthetics, She is a richly rewarding experience.

In conclusion, She is a truly memorable film, characterized by its powerful performances, notably from its titular actress Sandahl Bergman, and its imaginative fusion of genres and narrative styles. Its devotion to visual storytelling and atmospheric world-building make it an engaging watch that stands the test of time. It is a must-see for both fans of post-apocalyptic films and those looking for unique and thought-provoking cinema.