Plot: What’s it about?
Inside a Confederate prisoner camp, a Union officer named Cyrus (Kyle McLachlan) plots an escape, but it is a dangerous risk. But he and a few others decide that risk is worthwhile and thanks to a hot air balloon, are able to leave the confines of the camp behind. The balloon provides a means of escape, but is difficult to maneuver and as such, the group is at the mercy of the winds. After days of drifting through the skies, the balloon lands on a remote island. The band of escapees soon learns this island is most unusual, home to scorpions the size of cars and other exotic, dangerous beasts. The island is also inhabited by a man known as Captain Nemo (Patrick Stewart), an eccentric man who wants to enlist the group to aid in his plots. When Cyrus refuses, the danger increases, but can he lead his fellow escapees to safety after their daring break, or will Nemo and the monsters of this island prevent another escape?
I’ve never been a fan of Hallmark’s cable productions, which usually adapt an epic storyline into a low rent miniseries. These productions often feature washed up cast members, mediocre production values, and laughable special effects. In the case of Mysterious Island, I expected about the same and in the end, it was even worse than I anticipated. As if Captain Picard himself, Patrick Stewart as Captain Nemo wasn’t bad enough, we have a varied assortment of wooden performances from lackluster performers. The real star of Mysterious Island however, has to be the special effects, which are pathetic. I knew the effects would be bad, but man, I really underestimated just how terrible they could look. I hated this miniseries and to be honest, I wouldn’t wish Mysterious Island on my worst enemy, let alone anyone else.
Video: How does it look?
Mysterious Island is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The image here looks good, on par with most Hallmark productions, though the widescreen edition is a welcome improvement. The lush tropical visuals come across well, thanks to vivid colors and smooth contrast. I wouldn’t say the image has excellent depth, but it does show good detail, so softness isn’t much of a concern. Not a standout visual effort, but a solid one and fans should be satisfied.
Audio: How does it sound?
Mysterious Island is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The image here looks good, on par with most Hallmark productions, though the widescreen edition is a welcome improvement. The lush tropical visuals come across well, thanks to vivid colors and smooth contrast. I wouldn’t say the image has excellent depth, but it does show good detail, so softness isn’t much of a concern. Not a standout visual effort, but a solid one and fans should be satisfied.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes some interviews with cast and crew members.
