"King Solomon's Mines" is an action-adventure film based on the 1885 novel of the same name by H. Rider Haggard. Released in 1985, the movie was directed by J. Lee Thompson.
Synopsis:
The story follows Allan Quatermain, a renowned fortune hunter, who is hired to find a woman's missing father in Africa. The journey leads Quatermain and his companions into the uncharted regions of Africa, facing various dangers like wild animals, hostile tribes, and treacherous terrains.
As they delve deeper into the continent, they discover the legendary lost mines of King Solomon, which are said to be filled with unimaginable treasures. However, they are not the only ones seeking the mines, and a race against time ensues to claim the riches.
Cast and Characters:
- Richard Chamberlain as Allan Quatermain: The film's protagonist, a skilled adventurer and guide.
- Sharon Stone as Jesse Huston: A woman who hires Quatermain to find her missing father and becomes his love interest.
- Herbert Lom as Colonel Bockner: A German military officer and one of the film's antagonists.
- John Rhys-Davies as Dogati: Another antagonist who is also in search of the legendary mines.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Brazil (BR):
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Spain (ES):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
- Director: J. Lee Thompson
- Producers: Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus
- Screenplay Writers: Gene Quintano and James R. Silke
- Filming Locations: The movie was primarily shot in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The diverse landscapes of these countries provided the perfect backdrop for the African adventure.
- Budget and Box Office Performance: The film had a moderate budget and managed to perform decently at the box office, though it was overshadowed by other big releases of the time.
Reception and Awards:
- Critical Reception: "King Solomon's Mines" received mixed reviews from critics. While some enjoyed its adventurous spirit and comedic elements, others felt it was a lackluster adaptation of the classic novel.
- Audience Reception: The movie has since gained a cult following, with many appreciating its campy and over-the-top nature.
- Awards and Nominations: The film did not receive significant awards or nominations but remains a notable entry in the adventure genre of the 1980s.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Inspiration: The 1985 film is one of many adaptations of Haggard's novel. The story has been adapted into films, TV series, and radio plays multiple times since the book's publication.
- Sequel: Due to the film's moderate success, a sequel titled "Allan Quatermain and the Lost City of Gold" was released in 1987, with Chamberlain and Stone reprising their roles.
- Sharon Stone's Break: This film is one of Sharon Stone's early major roles, which helped her gain recognition in Hollywood.
In conclusion, "King Solomon's Mines" (1985) is a fun, adventurous romp that, while not critically acclaimed, offers an entertaining experience for fans of 80s adventure films. Its legacy is cemented by its place in the pantheon of adaptations of Haggard's classic tale.