The Last Starfighter Review

Disclaimer: Contains spoilers!

Plot Summary: An average Joe discovers the arcade game he has mastered is actually a training simulator for an elite group of alien pilots.

Review: This is yet another '80s gem many have missed out on...even those who grew up in the era. Sure, the film has become a bit dated, but, if you have a serious appreciation for the decade, or video games for that matter, you should still find a lot to love here. At the time these would have been amazing special effects, and the "Starfighter" arcade cabinet would have blown away any other game on the market. Speaking of which, I agree with many reviewers that this film is probably a big inspiration for the "Polybius" urban legend. Although this film was probably intended to capitalize on the "Star Wars" audience, I'd say it appeals more to the "ET" and "Goonies" crowd in hindsight.

The best aspect going for "The Last Starfighter" is the creative premise and high degree of entertainment; this movie fully embraced the kid-friendly tone in a way that appeals to the young and old alike. You have a relatable everyman. Alex, who dreams of making something out of his life, but is held back by his circumstance; you can feel the Luke Skywalker in him without a doubt. The only thing Alex really excels at is a video game called "Starfighter" whereby he is apparently the best in the world (it's ambiguous). As it turns out, the video game is actually a simulation of what it's like to be a real Starfighter--a group of ace pilots gathered from various planets in the galaxy. As we come to learn, a portion of the galaxy is protected by a barrier that keeps out evil aliens who would threaten a peaceful alliance of worlds similarly to the Federation in "Star Trek." Whenever aliens would try to invade, Starfighters are there to kick their ass. Unfortunately, all the Starfighters are killed in a sneak attack by cliched, evil villains leaving behind only Alex as--you guessed it--the last Starfighter! Coming as a shock to no one, Alex manages to defeat the aliens using his skills at the video game, gets the girl, and becomes a hero to the whole galaxy. Sooo cheesy but you know you love it! I'm just unsure why there was never a sequel given the loose ends deliberately left open.

Setting aside the fun-factor and satisfying nature of the story, the technical aspects are also impressive. As I mentioned, the special effects were incredible for the time. Yeah, admittedly, they look like shit by today's standards, but only a handful of films during this time could have competed. The music is respectable as well with yet another attempt at rivaling "Star Wars." Many characters are not fully fleshed out, especially the villains, but the actors tried to add flavor to their roles that is worth noting; the amusing little brother, the overacting old ladies, etc. all spice things up. Also, the usage of the arcade cabinet in general is awesome! I'd somewhat lump this into the category of good video game movies since the game does contribute so heavily to the plot.

Now, there are a few downsides that will hold it back--doubly so for younger audiences. The details of the alien races and how everything works in this mythos is certainly sketchy. I forgive a lot for this being meant for children, but many plot elements are too thin. The villains are dumb and cartoonish too. Alex takes far, far too long to shut up about not wanting to be a Starfighter. Bitch, they keep stressing Earth will get conquered at some point if the invading aliens aren't stopped so quit bitching about dying! Connected to this, it's never stressed that Alex really is some kind of prodigy or next level ace pilot. Sure, you could say everything is implied but no one is dazzled by Alex's abilities despite him single-handedly obliterating an entire fleet of ships without formal training! Yeah, he gets his own "throne room ceremony" moment, but, c'mon, the rest of the Starfighters died like fookin' nooooobs! Finally, the romance aspect was on the lame side, and the drama on Earth probably could have been handled more efficiently.

If you can get over the dated aspects, or, better yet, appreciate them, this movie will not let you down. "The Last Starfighter" might not be a classic like "The Goonies," but that doesn't mean it's any less of a fun, family-friendly adventure. Between the epic music and space dogfights you get everything you'd hope from a cheesy '80s film. Blending the combination of a geek's fantasy come to life meets "Star Wars" works amazingly. If you ever imagined that the game you were playing would turn out to be real, and you're the only one who can save the day, then this is the movie for you! Definitely seek this out asap--simply bear in mind the shortcomings, and you will be totally set for some good ol' fashioned, wholesome fun.

Notable Moment:

Alien 1: What do we do?

Alien 2: We die.

Such a terrible line, but the delivery of said line is off the charts levels of cornball! Plus, what is up with that scouter from DBZ? Insert obligatory "it's over 9000" joke.

Final Rating: 7/10