Artemis '81 (1981)

Artemis '81 Poster

Paranormal novelist Gideon Harlax is drawn into a battle between the forces of good, represented by alien angel Helith, and the forces of evil, represented by Helith's evil brother Asrael. Ranging from Oxford to Denmark, a North Sea ferry to an alien planet, Harlax unwittingly becomes part of an ancient plot that may result in the destruction of Earth...

Introduction
"Artemis 81" is an enigmatic and visionary fantasy science-fiction television film first aired on British tv in 1981. Directed by Alastair Reid, it was the very first full-length screenplay written by the well-known playwright David Rudkin. The film, understood for its complicated significance and abstract plot, checks out themes of excellent and evil, love and death, and the power of art against devastating forces.

Plot Overview
"Artemis 81" starts with a confrontation in between 2 alien siblings, Magus and Helith. They represent the forces of excellent and wicked, respectively, and their unearthly battle is destined to impact Earth. When Magus dies, his spirit looks for a terrestrial vessel, which he finds in historian Gideon Harlax. Gideon ends up being involved in discovering the ominous plot of Helith, who has taken physical type in the character of Albrecht Von Drachenfels.

Albrecht, a composer, plans to unleash damaging forces utilizing his haunting music that would usurp control over human souls, plunging the world into turmoil. The stakes rise as Gideon realizes that his girlfriend, Gwen, is in Albrecht's grasp and has unconsciously end up being an important part of his sinister plan.

Critical Analysis
"Artemis 81" is identified by its intricate story and philosophical depth. Rudkin's screenplay stands out in its exploration of abstract concepts and metaphysical styles, offering viewers a thought-provoking experience. The deliberate ambiguity and non-linear style of the narrative demand a high level of engagement from the audience.

The movie is distinctly visual, utilizing surreal and spooky images to boost the feel of the supernatural. The thoroughly built soundscape plays an essential function in the narrative too, where Albrecht's music serves as a potent weapon of mayhem and damage.

Acting and Characters
The performances of star Hywel Bennett as Gideon Harlax and Sting (Gordon Sumner) as Helith/Albrecht Von Drachenfels was highly praised. Bennett depicts Gideon's change from a disinterested historian to a male defending love and mankind convincingly. On the other hand, Sting's portrayal of the enigmatic and enormous Albrecht strengthens his status as a compelling star in his very first significant acting role.

Effect and Legacy
Despite its intricate nature, "Artemis 81" got important honor for its special mix of science fiction, fantasy, and scary, differentiated by its intellectual rigor and imaginative storytelling. While it was at first met confusion due to its ambiguous narrative and mystical themes, the film has gained a cult status throughout the years. It stands testimony to the potential of television for thought-provoking, ingenious storytelling.

In conclusion, "Artemis 81" remains a fascinating and challenging piece of work that has preserved its relevance over decades. Its interweaving of cosmic fights, human feelings, and the power of art presents a complex portrayal of the eternal struggle in between good and evil. This movie deserves a look for those who appreciate non-traditional narratives, rich symbolism, and philosophical themes.

Top Cast

  • Hywel Bennett (small)
    Hywel Bennett
    Gideon Harlax
  • Dinah Stabb
    Gwen Meredith
  • Dan O'Herlihy (small)
    Dan O'Herlihy
    Albrecht Von Drachenfels
  • Sting (small)
    Sting
    Helith
  • Anthony Steel (small)
    Anthony Steel
    Tristram Guise
  • Roland Curram (small)
    Roland Curram
    Asrael
  • Ian Redford (small)
    Ian Redford
    Jed Thaxter
  • Ingrid Pitt (small)
    Ingrid Pitt
    Hitchcock Blonde
  • Daniel Day-Lewis (small)
    Daniel Day-Lewis
    Library Student
  • Margaret Whiting
    Laura Guise