Gor (1987)

The VHS Strikes Back

Gor is a planet, a counter Earth, that sits in orbit at the opposite side of the Sun to the Earth we inhabit. And on the Vernal Equinox, this marks the New Year for most Gorean cities. This is the kind of sci-fi, fantasy sword and sorcery that Chris despises, and Dave loves. So it's only right that Dave's pick to see us into the new year would be Gor! But there might be a wildcard in this 1987 loose adaptation which has the review for this much maligned Canon picture going a different way.

The making of Gor (1987) was a quintessential Cannon Films production—big ambitions, tiny budget, and just a dash of chaos. Helmed by Fritz Kiersch (the bloke behind Children of the Corn), the film aimed to bring John Norman's Gorseries to life. Now, Norman's books are… let’s say “divisive,” so the filmmakers wisely ditched the dodgy bits and went all-in on the swords, sandals, and overly shiny chest plates. Shot in South Africa, the production made the most of the sweeping landscapes, though "epic fantasy" occasionally veered into "amateur cosplay." Still, it had that scrappy Cannon charm, the kind of vibe that screams, "This’ll look brilliant on VHS!"

As for the cast, it was a mixed bag. Urbano Barberini and Rebecca Ferratti led the charge, while Oliver Reed—bless him—turned up to chew scenery like it owed him money. Rumor has it Reed’s off-camera antics were just as entertaining as what made it into the final cut. The costumes looked like a sale at the world’s least practical armour shop, and the effects… well, let’s just say they tried. Despite the shoestring budget and dodgy execution, Gor carved out a weird little niche for itself among fantasy film enthusiasts, probably because it’s so delightfully bonkers. It’s the sort of film you stick on late at night with a few mates and some questionable snacks, knowing full well you’re in for some glorious nonsense.

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Plot Summary:

Professor Tarl Cabot is a mild-mannered academic who is accidentally transported to the planet Gor, a savage world ruled by warlords and filled with brutal battles. Upon arrival, Tarl discovers that he’s seen as a prophesied hero destined to free the oppressed people from the tyranny of the evil Sarm and his minions. Armed with a mysterious magical ring and a newfound knack for sword fighting, Tarl joins forces with a group of rebels, including the brave warrior Talena, to overthrow Sarm’s regime. Along the way, Tarl must embrace his inner warrior, navigate treacherous alliances, and decide if he’s willing to leave his old life behind to become the hero Gor desperately needs.

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