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 ne of the bleakest, most inventive, and
nihilistic films of the 1990s was barely noticed when it was first
released, but thanks to cable and video rentals, "Hardware" has
slowly gained a following that has earned it cult status. Deservedly so,
for "Hardware" is a dark and daring piece of filmmaking that
deserves to be recognized.
The film opens in a post
apocalyptic world, the kind where you almost expect Kevin Costner to show
up trying to save humanity through punctual mail delivery. Who actually
arrives is Moses Baxter (Dylan McDermott), who brings with him the head of
a salvaged robot as a gift to his reclusive sculptor girlfriend (Stacey
Travis). What Moses doesn't know is that the head is much more than it
seems; it's part of a killer robot, the M.A.R.K. 13, invented as part of a
"population lowering measure". Unknown to Moses and his
girlfriend, the dangerous machine soon begins rebuilding itself, adding a
chainsaw, power drill, claws, and poisons to its arsenal. When Moses
realizes the truth about his seemingly innocuous gift, will he be able to
stop M.A.R.K 13 from killing his girlfriend and the tenants in her
apartment building?
The one thing that's evident about "Hardware" is that it's got
style and visual panache to burn. Director Richard Stanley has learned his
lessons well as a rock video director, giving the film an angry, reddish
color that emphasizes the desolation of the environment and the copious
amounts of blood that will soon flow. The landscape of
"Hardware" is grotesque and beautiful, so ugly you can't bear to
tear your eyes away from it. There's nary a slow spot to be found in the
pacing, and the film barrels along to its tragic conclusion, leaving you
mesmerized along the way.
The script (also by Stanley) offers a clever and highly imaginative look
at a hopeless future. Based on the comic book Shok by Kevin MacManus and
Kevin O'Neil, "Hardware" has been seamlessly adapted to the
screen without losing any of the comic book's impact. The biblical
reference in the M.A.R.K. 13's name is also smartly done, not to mention
very chilling. Characters are well depicted and just sympathetic enough so
you actually care what happens to them. Also, there's enough gore to
overdose even the most demanding gorehound.
The cast, while small, is quite good in their respective roles. Dylan
McDermott (TV's "The Practice") is excellent as Moses, a
brooding everyman thrust into an extraordinary situation. He just wants to
give his girlfriend a present, but instead gives her way more than he or
she ever bargained for. As his girlfriend Jill, Stacey Travis handles her
part equally well, portraying a strong, independent female character.
But the most memorable character is played by William
Hootkins, as the fat, sweaty, and perverted neighbor everyone dreads
having. If this guy moves in next door, it's best to abandon your
belongings and leave immediately. Rock fans will also enjoy cameo
appearances by Iggy Pop, Lemmy, and Carl McCoy in small but memorable
parts.
The music by Simon Boswell is an eerie sounding composition, complementing
the despairing tone of the film. Ministry, Motorhead, Iggy Pop, and Public
Image Ltd all contribute to the film's soundtrack, their harsh music
accentuating the events happening onscreen. Recognition should also go to
Paul Catling, Chris Cunningham, and future director Stephen Norrington
("Blade")
for creating the design of the M.A.R.K. 13.
"Hardware" is arguably the first cinematic
masterpiece of the 1990s. It's not for all tastes, being a downbeat and
gory film, but to fans of science fiction and horror, and adventurous
viewers in general, this is a sight to behold.
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