Time Chasers

Time Chasers is an independent, low-budget, science fiction feature film released in 1994 that has achieved cult status. The film was directed by David Giancola and features Matthew Bruch, Bonnie Pritchard, and Peter Harrington in lead roles.

The primary plot of the film revolves around Nicholas Miller, the character played by Matthew Bruch. A nerdy software tester and private pilot, Miller invents a time machine in the guise of what at first glance appears to be an ordinary private airplane. His invention, aptly named "The Time Transport", can navigate through the dimensional corridors of time and space using a thrifty Commodore 64 computer.

The Time Chasers takes off magnificently as Nicholas demonstrations his incredible invention to his old girlfriend, Lisa Nielson (Bonnie Pritchard), in some convincing early scenes. Their journey from 1994 back to the idyllic 1950s and then forward to a grim 2041 creates an intriguing movie narrative. However, Nicholas realizes that his invention can also tamper with the timeline, leading to unintended catastrophic consequences.

Eager to find a backer for his invention, Nicholas pitches his time machine to an ostensibly benevolent corporation called GenCorp, represented by the slick business shark, J.K. Robertson, played by Peter Harrington. Believing in the potential for the time machine to revolutionize transportation and technology, Robertson promises to fund the project, lifting Nicholas's hopes. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that GenCorp and Robertson have their own sinister plans for using the time machine. This sets up an ethical quandary for Nicholas: allow his discovery to be misused or take action to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

The film, which is primarily a time-travel narrative, deals with the usual tropes of this genre, such as potential alterations in the fabric of time, protecting the invention from falling into wrong hands, and the overarching paradox of attempting to reverse the damage done. These subjects are handled with a good blend of seriousness and humor, keeping the movie light-hearted yet engaging.

One can argue that the film's heart lays in its framing of morality. It poses ethical questions about the manipulation of time, the ramifications of commercializing such power, and the ensuing battle between one man standing against a powerful corporation to defend his invention and prevent potential temporal catastrophe.

Time Chasers also incorporates a mild love interest subplot between the two primary characters, Nicholas and Lisa. Their shared history and the subsequent rekindling of the old flame add an emotional layer to the film, making it more than just a science fiction time-travel drama.

As a low-budget film, Time Chasers may not be able to boast of high-end special effects or intricate set designs. However, it manages to pull off its core time travel premise convincingly through clever camera work and well-constructed plotlines. The performances by the lead actors are charming and do justice to the time-travel narrative. Special mention goes to Peter Harrington's portrayal of the corporate villain, who brings the right balance of charm and menace to his character.

Despite the obvious budgetary constraints, Time Chasers has managed to carve a niche for itself in the genre of time-travel movies. Its engaging narrative, ethical undertones, and relatable characters make the movie a worthy watch for those with a soft spot for independent cinema. Over the years, the film’s imaginative storytelling, coupled with its lovable kitschy quality, has garnered it a devoted fanbase. This has only increased since the film’s lampooning by the popular television show, Mystery Science Theater 3000, introducing it to a wider array of audiences.

In summary, Time Chasers is a fun, low-budget sci-fi adventure that manages to tackle complex time-travel concepts within its own unique style. Despite its limited resources, it leaves a lasting impression on viewers with its enjoyable narrative, competent performances, and its treatment of morality under the premise of time-travel. lovers of B-movie science fiction will find Time Chasers to be an endearing and entertaining flick.